Observation of topological surface states and pressure-induced superconductivity in the Van der Waals crystal
Phys. Rev. B 112, 045138 – Published 23 July, 2025
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1103/m1c6-kc73
Abstract
Tuning superconductivity in topological materials has been identified as a promising pathway for achieving topological superconductivity, which could accelerate advancements in topological quantum computation. Ternary transition-metal chalcogenides (where = Zr, Hf, or Ti; = Te) have been theoretically predicted to be candidates for two-dimensional (2D) topological insulators. In this study we systematically investigate the crystal structure, electronic band properties, and pressure effects of one member of this family, namely, . Our single-crystal x-ray diffraction studies reveal that adopts a trigonal structure with space group (no. 164), rather than the previously reported monoclinic () structure. Band structure calculations, complemented by angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy measurements, indicate that exhibits a topological semimetal nature. Notably, the application of high pressure induces superconductivity, with a maximum transition temperature () of approximately 5.6 K at pressures around 11–14 GPa. Intriguingly, in the optimal pressure region of the dome-shaped phase diagram, the normal-state resistance shows the highest values, and a nearly linear temperature dependence of resistance is observed above . Overall, our results establish the family as a promising candidate for exploring the interaction between the nontrivial band topology and superconductivity.