Anomalous pressure dependence of the superconducting transition temperature in the β-Pyrochlore KOs2O6

Abstract

DC magnetic measurements have been performed for β-pyrochlore superconductor KOs2O6 (Tc = 9.6 K) under pressure for the precise determination of the pressure dependence of Tc, using a miniature diamond anvil cell combined with a commercial SQUID magnetometer. It is found that the critical temperature Tc shows a maximum of ∼10 K at P=0.5 GPa. The maximum of Tc is higher than that for CsOs2O6 and RbOs2O6, in both of which Tc is known to increase and saturate at Tcm = 8.8 K by the application of pressure, suggesting the enhanced superconductivity due to the rattling of K ions in an oversized cage of Os-O network. For the further application of pressure, Tc decreases linearly but the decreasing rate appears to be suddenly changed at P∼2 GPa and Tc∼8 K. The sharp bend of the Tc — P line probably corresponds to the transition concerning to the rattling motion which occurs at Tp=7.5 K at ambient pressure, suggesting the positive pressure dependence of Tp.