Abstract
We provide a semiquantitative tool, derived from first-principles simulations, for answering the question of whether certain types of defects in solid support mass superflow. Although ideal crystals of are not supersolid, the gap for vacancy creation closes when applying a moderate stress. While a homogeneous system becomes unstable at this point, the stressed core of crystalline defects (dislocations and grain boundaries) can turn superfluid.
- Received 28 May 2008
- Publisher error corrected 18 December 2008
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevLett.101.097202
©2008 American Physical Society
Corrections
18 December 2008
Erratum
Publisher’s Note: Local Stress and Superfluid Properties of Solid [Phys. Rev. Lett. 101, 097202 (2008)]
L. Pollet, M. Boninsegni, A. B. Kuklov, N. V. Prokof’ev, B. V. Svistunov, and M. Troyer
Phys. Rev. Lett. 101, 269901 (2008)
Viewpoint
How could a solid be superfluid?
Published 25 August 2008
Experiments indicate that, as in a superfluid, mass can flow through solid helium-4 without viscous resistance. Recent calculations shed light on how this may happen thanks to defects in the crystal lattice.
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