Topologically stable gapless phases of time-reversal invariant superconductors

We show that time-reversal invariant superconductors in d=2 (d=3) dimensions can support topologically stable Fermi points (lines), characterized by an integer topological charge. Combining this with the momentum space symmetries present, we prove analogs of the fermion doubling theorem: for d=2 lattice models admitting a spin X electron-hole structure, the number of Fermi points is a multiple of four, while for d=3, Fermi lines come in pairs. We show two implications of our findings for topological superconductors in d=3: first, we relate the bulk topological invariant to a topological number for the surface Fermi points in the form of an index theorem. Second, we show that the existence of topologically stable Fermi lines results in extended gapless regions in a generic topological superconductor phase diagram.Comment: 7 pages, 1 figure; v3: expanded versio

Black-hole horizon and metric singularity at the brane separating two sliding superfluids

An analog of black hole can be realized in the low-temperature laboratory. The horizon can be constructed for the `relativistic' ripplons (surface waves) living on the brane. The brane is represented by the interface between two superfluid liquids, 3He-A and 3He-B, sliding along each other without friction. Similar experimental arrangement has been recently used for the observation and investigation of the Kelvin-Helmholtz type of instability in superfluids (cond-mat/0111343). The shear-flow instability in superfluids is characterized by two critical velocities. The lowest threshold measured in recent experiments (cond-mat/0111343) corresponds to appearance of the ergoregion for ripplons. In the modified geometry this will give rise to the black-hole event horizon in the effective metric experienced by ripplons. In the region behind the horizon, the brane vacuum is unstable due to interaction with the higher-dimensional world of bulk superfluids. The time of the development of instability can be made very long at low temperature. This will allow us to reach and investigate the second critical velocity -- the proper Kelvin-Helmholtz instability threshold. The latter corresponds to the singularity inside the black hole, where the determinant of the effective metric becomes infinite.Comment: LaTeX file, 12 pages, 3 Figures, version accepted in JETP Letter

A new high temperature noble metal thermocouple pairing

Investigation has revealed reasonably oxidation resistant thermocouple pairing suitable for use in combustor gas streams at temperatures above 1873 K and at pressures above 20 atmospheres

Continuous turning slip ring assembly Patent

Development of slip ring assembly with inner and outer peripheral surfaces used as electrical contacts for brushe