Multipole-fluctuation pairing mechanism of $d_{x^2-y^2}+ig$ superconductivity in Sr$_2$RuO$_4$

Abstract

Despite of many experimental and theoretical efforts, the pairing symmetry of superconductivity in Sr$_2$RuO$_4$ remains undecided. The accidentally degenerate $d_{x^2-y^2}+ig$ is consistent with most current experiments and seems to be one of the most probable candidates, but we still lack a satisfactory theoretical mechanism for its appearance. Here we construct a phenomenological model combining realistic electronic band structures and all symmetry-allowed multipole fluctuations as potential pairing glues, and make a systematic survey of major pairing states within the Eliashberg framework. Our calculations show that $d_{x^2-y^2}+ig$ can arise naturally from the interplay of antiferromagnetic, ferromagnetic, and electric multipole fluctuations whose coexistence is manifested in previous experiments and calculations. Our work provides a physically reasonable basis supporting the possibility of $d_{x^2-y^2}+ig$ pairing in superconducting Sr$_2$RuO$_4$.