Superconductivity in single-crystalline ZrTe3−x (x ≤ 0.5) nanoplates

Abstract

Superconductivity with an unusual filamented character below 2 K has been reported in bulk ZrTe₃ crystals, a well-known charge density wave (CDW) material, but still lacks in its nanostructures. Here, we systemically investigated the transport properties of controllable chemical vapor transport synthesized ZrTe_3−x nanoplates. Intriguingly, superconducting behavior is found at T_c = 3.4 K and can be understood by the suppression of CDW due to the atomic disorder formed by Te vacancies. Magnetic field and angle dependent upper critical field revealed that the superconductivity in the nanoplates exhibits a large anisotropy and two-dimensional character. This two-dimensional nature of superconductivity was further satisfactorily described using the Berezinsky–Kosterlitz–Thouless transition. Our results not only demonstrate the critical role of Te vacancies for superconductivity in ZrTe_3–x nanoplates, but also provide a promising platform to explore the exotic physics in the nanostructure devices.