English

Nonlinear $\sigma$-model for disordered systems with intrinsic spin-orbit coupling

Superconductivity 2022-06-30 v1

Abstract

We derive the nonlinear σ\sigma-model to describe diffusive transport in normal metals and superconductors with intrinsic spin-orbit coupling (SOC). The SOC is described via an SU(2) gauge field, and we expand the model to the fourth order in gradients to find the leading non-Abelian field-strength contribution. This contribution generates the spin-charge coupling that is responsible for the spin-Hall effect. We discuss how its symmetry differs from the leading quasiclassical higher-order gradient terms. We also derive the corresponding Usadel equation describing the diffusive spin-charge dynamics in superconducting systems. As an example, we apply the obtained equations to describe the anomalous supercurrent in dirty Rashba superconductors at arbitrary temperatures.

Keywords

Cite

@article{arxiv.2205.14075,
  title  = {Nonlinear $\sigma$-model for disordered systems with intrinsic spin-orbit coupling},
  author = {P. Virtanen and F. S. Bergeret and I. V. Tokatly},
  journal= {arXiv preprint arXiv:2205.14075},
  year   = {2022}
}

Comments

13 pages + supplementary material

R2 v1 2026-06-24T11:31:09.030Z