Topological Surface Superconductivity via Josephson Coupling in Bi2Te3/Nb

Abstract

Since discoveries of protected conducting surface states, topological superconducting qubits have enchanted quantum science as prime elements in future fault-tolerant devices, particularly those based on Josephson junctions containing topological insulators. Still, Josephson coupling is often eclipsed by other proximity effects that can dilute topological superconducting pairing at the nontrivial insulator's boundaries. Here, however, using an ultra-low-temperature scanning tunneling microscope, we detect Josephson physics in topological Bi₂Te₃ films on superconducting Nb. At low temperatures, a previously undetected proximity gap varies little with Bi₂Te₃ thickness and the density of states exhibits normal and superconducting components. Such observations are rationalized via Josephson pair tunneling through the (nearly) insulating Bi₂Te₃ bulk, creating a rare, pure topological superconducting sheet. Our findings establish routes toward accessible topological superconducting states in qubits.

Keywords: Josephson junction; Josephson pair tunneling; bulk-carrier doping; proximity effect; topological insulator films; topological superconductor.