Andreev reflections modulated by the breaking of space-inversion symmetry in graphene-typed materials

Abstract

Abstract We theoretically perform a comprehensive analysis about the influences of the space-inversion symmetry breaking in graphene-based materials on the Andreev reflections (AR) in the normal-metal/superconductor (NS) and NSN heterojunctions. It is found that in the NS junction, the AR can be suppressed or be enhanced by the enhancement of space-inversion symmetry breaking, depending on the relationship among the coherence parameters. Following this result, the AR properties in the NSN structure are evaluated. It is readily observed that the local AR can be weakened for low space-inversion symmetry breaking, and can be enhanced for high space-inversion symmetry breaking. Alternatively, the efficiency of the crossed AR can be improved to a great degree, with the increase of space-inversion symmetry breaking. One can therefore understand the special role of space-inversion symmetry in modulating the AR, especially for the enhancement of crossed AR.