Three-Dimensional Superconductivity in the Infinite-Layer Compound Sr_{0.9}La_{0.1}CuO_2 in Entire Region below $T_c$

Abstract

The infinite-layer compound ACuO$_{2}$ (A $=$ alkaline-earth ions) is regarded as the most suitable material for exploring the fundamental nature of the CuO$_2$ plane because it does not contain a charge-reservoir block, such as a rock-salt or a fluorite like block. We report that superconductivity in the infinite-layer compound Sr$_{0.9}$La$_{0.1}$CuO$_2$ is of a three-dimensional nature, in contrast to the quasi two-dimensional superconducting behavior of all other cuprates. The key observation is that the $c$-axis coherence length is longer than the $c$-axis lattice constant even at zero temperature. This means that the superconducting order parameter of one CuO$_{2}$ plane overlaps with those of neighboring CuO$_{2}$ planes all the temperatures below the $T_c$. Among all cuprates, only the infinite-layer superconductor shows such a feature.