Signatures of Andreev Blockade in a Double Quantum Dot Coupled to a Superconductor

Po Zhang, Hao Wu, Jun Chen, Sabbir A. Khan, Peter Krogstrup, David Pekker, Sergey M. Frolov*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalLetterResearchpeer-review

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Abstract

We investigate an electron transport blockade regime in which a spin triplet localized in the path of current is forbidden from entering a spin-singlet superconductor. To stabilize the triplet, a double quantum dot is created electrostatically near a superconducting Al lead in an InAs nanowire. The quantum dot closest to the normal lead exhibits Coulomb diamonds, and the dot closest to the superconducting lead exhibits Andreev bound states and an induced gap. The experimental observations compare favorably to a theoretical model of Andreev blockade, named so because the triplet double dot configuration suppresses Andreev reflections. Observed leakage currents can be accounted for by finite temperature. We observe the predicted quadruple level degeneracy points of high current and a periodic conductance pattern controlled by the occupation of the normal dot. Even-odd transport asymmetry is lifted with increased temperature and magnetic field. This blockade phenomenon can be used to study spin structure of superconductors. It may also find utility in quantum computing devices that use Andreev or Majorana states.

Original languageEnglish
Article number046801
JournalPhysical Review Letters
Volume128
Issue number4
Number of pages6
ISSN0031-9007
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 28 Jan 2022

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