Superconductivity in structurally complex $σ$-Phase Re-X (X = V, Nb, Ta) and a derived medium-entropy alloys

Abstract: The structurally complex tetragonal sigma ($σ$)-phase provides a unique platform for investigating the interplay between chemical disorder, electronic structure, and superconductivity, particularly in Re-based alloys where unconventional superconductivity has been widely discussed. Here, we synthesize and investigate the superconducting properties of $σ$-phase Re-X (X = V, Nb, and Ta) alloys with compositions Re$<em>{0.76}$V$</em>{0.24}$, Re$<em>{0.56}$Nb$</em>{0.44}$, and Re$<em>{0.60}$Ta$</em>{0.40}$. These compositions lie within the narrow stability range of the $σ$ phase, underscoring the critical role of valence electron concentration in phase formation. To examine the influence of enhanced chemical disorder, we further synthesize the structurally complex medium-entropy alloy Re$<em>{0.56}$Nb$</em>{0.19}$Ta$<em>{0.19}$V$</em>{0.06}$, derived from these binary systems. Magnetization, electrical resistivity, and specific-heat measurements establish bulk type-II superconductivity in all compounds. Analysis of the electronic heat capacity is consistent with a fully gapped, weak-coupling BCS superconducting state. In contrast, the normal-state resistivity exhibits an unconventional negative temperature coefficient, and the superconducting transition temperature values obtained from resistivity measurements are higher than those determined from other measurements. Our results demonstrate that both the $σ$-phase Re-X alloys, spanning 3d, 4d, and 5d transition-metal substitutions, and their medium-entropy counterpart constitute an attractive family of model systems for investigating the effects of structural complexity, chemical disorder, and spin-orbit coupling on superconductivity in Re-based materials.