Nonequilibrium superconductivity in Y1-xPrxBa2Cu3O7 thin films

Abstract

We have measured the picosecond conductivity dynamics in Y1-xPrxBa2Cu3O7 thin films from 0.3-2.0 terahertz. Our experimental technique measures the complex conductivity $σ_{re}(ω$) + i$σ_{im}(ω$) permitting the simultaneous observation of superconducting pair and quasiparticle dynamics. We emphasize aspects of the conductivity dynamics which extend our previous results. In particular, the recovery of $σ_{re}$ is faster than $σ_{im}$, and the recovery of $σ_{im}$ decreases with increasing frequency. This suggests another carrier relaxation pathway, in addition to superconducting pair recovery, following optical excitation.