Phase dependent multiple Andreev reflections in SNS interferometers

Abstract

A theory of coherent multiple Andreev reflections (MAR) is developed for superconductor-normal metal-superconductor (SNS) interferometers. We consider a Y-shape normal electron beam splitter connecting two superconducting reservoirs, where the two connection points to the same superconductor can have different phase. The current is calculated in the quantum transport regime as a function of applied voltage and phase difference, $I(V,ϕ)$. MAR in interferometers incorporates two features: interference in the arms of the splitter, and interplay with Andreev resonances. The latter feature yields enhancement of the subgap current and current peaks with phase-dependent positions and magnitudes. The interference effect leads to suppression of the subgap current and complete disappearance of the current peaks at $ϕ=π$. The excess current at large voltage decreases and changes sign with increasing phase difference.