Two-fold anisotropic superconducting state in topological superconductor Sn₄Au

Abstract

Here we report the anisotropic magnetotransport properties in the superconducting state of Sn4Au single crystal. Sn4Au single crystal is synthesized through an easy melt growth method. Superconducting properties are evidenced from resistivity vs. temperature (-T) and DC magnetization measurements. Isothermal magnetization measurements (M-H) hint toward type-II superconductivity in Sn4Au. In-plane and out-of-plane -H measurements show anisotropic behavior of the upper critical field at temperatures below superconducting transition (Tc = 2.3 K). The observed anisotropy is more elucidated in -H measurements performed below Tc at different tilt angles. The anisotropy parameter () is found to be 1.26. The observed results show the presence two-fold anisotropic superconducting state in Sn4Au single crystal, which may be induced due to the layered structure of synthesized Sn4Au single crystal.