Strong-Coupling Theory of High Temperature Superconductivity
Abstract
Description
High-temperature superconductivity (HTS) of cuprates represents a challenge to the conventional theory. Here I review a multi-polaron approach to the problem based on our extension of the BCS theory to the strong-coupling regime. Since there is almost no retardation (i.e. no Tolmachev-Morel-Anderson logarithm) reducing the Coulomb repulsion, e-ph interactions should be relatively strong to overcome the direct Coulomb repulsion, so carriers must be polaronic to form pairs in novel superconductors. I identify the Froehlich electron-phonon interaction as the most essential for pairing in superconducting cuprates, and discuss the "Froehlich-Coulomb" model of HTS, low-energy structures, and the phase diagram of cuprates. "Individual" versus Cooper pairing, normal state properties, in particular in-plane resistivity, the Hall effect, magnetic susceptibility, the Lorenz number, the Nernst effect, diamagnetism, spin and charge pseudogaps, and c-axis transport are also discussed. I present a parameter-free evaluation of Tc, an explanation of isotope effects, specific heat anomalies, upper critical fields, symmetries and space modulations of the order parameter. Finally I introduce a model of overdoped cuprates as mixtures of mobile bipolarons and degenerate lattice polarons.
65 pages, 24 figures, 187 references, invited review to the Special Golden Jubilee volume of Studies of High-Temperature Superconductors, ed. A. Narlikar, typos corrected
65 pages, 24 figures, 187 references, invited review to the Special Golden Jubilee volume of Studies of High-Temperature Superconductors, ed. A. Narlikar, typos corrected