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The behaviors of high-temperature superconductors (HTS) has been for decades one of the most fascinating puzzles of condensed-matter physics. The category of HTS has been initially populated only by the enigmatic cuprates, operating at temperatures far higher than traditional superconductors and revealing a rich tapestry of coexisting phases like antiferromagnetic order, pair density waves, charge density waves, etc.. Since 2008 the journey continued with the emergence of iron-based superconductors, characterized by a multiband structure, different types of pairing symmetries (such as s±, s+is and nodeless d-wave states), and an analogous proximity to (and influence from) magnetic phases.
Nowadays, several new players have entered the scene. For example, twisted layered materials, such as twisted bilayer graphene, can generates flat electronic bands at specific electron fillings (termed "magic fillings"), which leads to strong electron interactions and foster Cooper pair formation, essential for superconductivity. These flat bands may be topologically nontrivial, offering an exciting venue for the interplay between topological phases and unconventional superconductivity. Recently, bilayer nickelates under pressure have demonstrated superconductivity at about 80K, sparking a fresh wave of excitement and exploration. Their strong electron correlations, magnetic interactions, and unique electronic structure make them an intriguing platform for uncovering novel superconducting mechanisms. Each phase in this evolution has defied traditional paradigms, offering a tantalizing playground for researchers to probe the boundaries of known physics and paving the way for potentially transformative applications in energy transmission, transportation, and beyond.
In this topical collection "Unconventional High Temperature Superconductors," we invite you to contribute to the next chapter of this captivating journey of discovery. We encourage experimentalists and theorists to delve into the intricacies that govern these complex materials, shedding light on the intertwined phases and advancing the understanding in their relationship with superconductivity. Besides, we also welcome works on the discovery, tuning and optimization of new material systems that expand our toolkit for unraveling these mysteries.