Asymmetric Fraunhofer pattern in Josephson junctions from heterodimensional superlattice V5S8

Abstract

Introduction of spin–orbit coupling (SOC) in a Josephson junction (JJ) gives rise to unusual Josephson effects. We investigate JJs based on a newly discovered heterodimensional superlattice V5S8 with a special form of SOC. The unique homointerface of our JJs enables elimination of extrinsic effects due to interfaces and disorder. We observe asymmetric Fraunhofer patterns with respect to both the perpendicular magnetic field and the current. The asymmetry is influenced by an in-plane magnetic field. Analysis of the pattern points to a nontrivial spatial distribution of the Josephson current that is intrinsic to the SOC in V5S8.