Pressure-induced superconductivity in a novel germanium allotrope

Abstract

High-pressure studies on elements play an essential role in superconductivity research, with implications for both fundamental science and applications. Here we report the experimental discovery of surprisingly low pressure driving a novel germanium allotrope into a superconducting state in comparison to that for α-Ge. Raman measurements revealed structural phase transitions and possible electronic topological transitions under pressure up to 58 GPa. Based on pressure-dependent resistivity measurements, superconductivity was induced above 2 GPa and the maximum Tc of 6.8 K was observed under 4.6 GPa. Interestingly, a superconductivity enhancement was discovered during decompression, indicating the possibility of maintaining pressure-induced superconductivity at ambient pressure with better superconducting performance. Density functional theory analysis further suggested that the electronic structure of Ge (oP32) is sensitive to its detailed geometry and revealed that disorder in the β-tin structure leads to a higher Tc in comparison to the perfect β-tin Ge.