Abstract
We investigate the influence of inhomogeneity in the pairing coupling constant U(r-vector) on dirty BCS superconductors, focusing on Tc, the order parameter Delta(r-vector), and the energy gap Eg(r-vector). Within mean-field theory, we find that when the length scale of the inhomogeneity is comparable to or larger than the coherence length, the ratio 2Eg/Tc is significantly reduced from that of a homogeneous superconductor, while in the opposite limit, this ratio stays unmodified. In two dimensions, when strong phase fluctuations are included, the Kosterlitz-Thouless temperature TKT is also studied. We find that when the inhomogeneity length scale is much larger than the coherence length, 2Eg/TKT can be larger than the usual BCS value. We use our results to qualitatively explain recent experimental observation of a surprisingly low value of 2Eg/Tc in thin films.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
