Candidate muon-probe sites in oxide superconductors

Abstract

Two independent search methods (potential-energy and magnetic-dipole-field calculations) are used to determine muon stop sites in the RBa2Cu3Ox (x≂7) superconductors. Possible sites, located about 1 Å away from oxygen ions, have been found and are prime candidates as muon-probe locations. The results are discussed in light of existing muon-spin-relaxation (μSR) data of these exciting oxides, and compared to H- and positron-oxide superconductor studies. Further work is in progress to establish in detail the muon-probe sites; this knowledge is an essential ingredient for a correct interpretation of μSR data of high-temperature superconducting oxides.