Pressure-Induced Magnetic-Field-Free Superconducting Diode Effect in Flake
Phys. Rev. Lett. 137, 076003 – Published 13 August, 2026
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1103/8wnw-16qt
Abstract
The superconducting diode effect (SDE) is a fascinating nonreciprocal phenomenon where the critical current is different for opposite current directions. It is widely believed that realizing SDE requires breaking both inversion symmetry and time-reversal symmetry (TRS), which are usually achieved via heterostructure engineering and applying external magnetic fields. Here, we report a pressure-induced magnetic-field-free SDE in flakes without any heterostructures. We show that pressure alone breaks the inversion symmetry, as confirmed by the second harmonic generation. Crucially, upon applying an out-of-plane magnetic field (), the SDE exhibits even-in-B behavior, implying the absence of explicit TRS breaking. This finding challenges the prevailing theoretical paradigm and demonstrates that a magnetic-field-free SDE can emerge without explicitly breaking TRS. Thereby, our Letter establishes pressure engineering as a powerful tool for inducing nonreciprocal superconductivity and designing versatile, magnetic-field-free superconducting devices.