Description
Topological phases emerge from the global properties of electronic band structures, stabilized by time-reversal or mirror symmetries. Their hallmark is the presence of gapless boundary states that are robust against perturbations and enable charge transport without backscattering. To realize a non-trivial conducting state, we adopted a stacking strategy by fabricating a superlattice composed of nominally trivial metallic layers, which were formed by 3.1 nm-thick aluminum films alternated with ultrathin (1.3 nm) nickel layers that mediate intermediate coupling between adjacent Al films. The goal of this stage of the research was to test for the presence of highly conductive quantum channels in a multilayered (Al/Ni)$_{10}$ structure, providing compelling evidence for topologically protected transport modes. To this end, we employed our previously developed technique for probing normal–superconducting hybrid sandwiches using nonlocal four-terminal electrical measurements. Remarkably, the phenomena observed in the (Al/Ni)$_{10}$ superlattice bear a strong resemblance to behaviors reported in topological systems hosting higher-order edge modes, despite the constituent metals being topologically trivial in their intrinsic band structure. While a definitive topological interpretation requires further experimental and theoretical validation, the results obtained suggest a novel route for engineering exotic edge transport modes in hybrid multilayered metallic systems. These findings open promising directions toward realizing low-dissipation quantum devices based on technologically accessible, structurally tunable materials.
| Pracovisko fakulty (katedra)/ Department of Faculty | Centre for Nanotechnology and Advanced Materials |
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| Tlač postru/ Print poster | Nebudem požadovať tlač posteru / I don't require to print the poster |
