Vortex structure in $d$-wave superconductors

Abstract

Vortex structure of pure $d_{x^2-y^2}$-wave superconductors is microscopically analyzed in the framework of the quasi-classical Eilenberger equations. Selfconsistent solution for the $d$-wave pair potential is obtained for the first time in the case of an isolated vortex. The vortex core structure, i.e., the pair potential, the supercurrent and the magnetic field, is found to be fourfold symmetric even in the case that the mixing of $s$-wave component is absent. The detailed temperature dependences of these quantities are calculated. The fourfold symmetry becomes clear when temperature is decreased. The local density of states is calculated for the selfconsistently obtained pair potential. From the results, we discuss the flow trajectory of the quasiparticles around a vortex, which is characteristic in the $d_{x^2-y^2}$-wave superconductors. The experimental relevance of our results to high temperature superconductors is also given.