Nonlinear $σ$ model for disordered superconductors

Abstract

We suggest a novel nonlinear $σ$-model for the description of disordered superconductors. The main distinction from existing models lies in the fact that the saddle point equation is solved non-perturbatively in the superconducting pairing field. It allows one to use the model both in the vicinity of the metal-superconductor transition and well below its critical temperature with full account for the self-consistency conditions. We show that the model reproduces a set of known results in different limiting cases, and apply it for a self-consistent description of the proximity effect at the superconductor-metal interface.