Superconductivity in Y$_3$Ru$_4$Ge$_{13}$ and Lu$_3$Os$_4$Ge$_{13}$: A comparative study

Abstract

A variety of unconventional superconductors have low carrier density as a common factor. However, the underlying mechanism of superconductivity in such low carrier density systems is not well understood. Besides, small carrier density is an unfavourable component for conventional superconductivity as described by the Bardeen-Cooper-Schrieffer (BCS) theory. Therefore, studying low carrier density systems can lead to a better understanding in such systems. In this paper, we report superconductivity property studies in low carrier density systems, Y$_3$Ru$_4$Ge$_{13}$ and Lu$_3$Os$_4$Ge$_{13}$, using various experimental techniques. Single crystals of Y$_3$Ru$_4$Ge$_{13}$ and Lu$_3$Os$_4$Ge$_{13}$ have been grown using the Czochralski crystal pulling method in a tetra-arc furnace. The x-ray diffraction experiment reveals that both compounds crystallize in cubic structure {(space group $\it{Pm3n}$, no. 223)}. The transport, magnetization and heat capacity measurements show that Y$_3$Ru$_4$Ge$_{13}$ single crystal undergoes a superconducting transition at 2.85~K, whereas, Lu$_3$Os$_4$Ge$_{13}$ becomes superconductor at 3.1~K.

5 pages, 12 figures