SO(6)-Generalized Pseudogap Model of the Cuprates

The smooth evolution of the tunneling gap of Bi_2Sr_2CaCu_2O_8 with doping from a pseudogap state in the underdoped cuprates to a superconducting state at optimal and overdoping reflects an underlying SO(6) instability structure of the (pi,0) saddle points. The pseudogap is probably not associated with superconductivity, but is related to competing nesting instabilities, which are responsible for the stripe phases. We earlier introduced a simple Ansatz of this competition in terms of a pinned Balseiro-Falicov (pBF) model of competing charge density wave and (s-wave) superconductivity. This model gives a good description of the phase diagram and the tunneling and photoemission spectra. Here, we briefly review these results, and discuss some recent developments: experimental evidence for a non-superconducting component to the pseudogap; and SO(6) generalizations of the pBF model, including flux phase and d-wave superconductivity.Comment: 6 pages LaTex, 4 ps figures (U. of Miami Conference HTS99

Stripe Disordering Transition

We have recently begun Monte Carlo simulations of the dynamics of stripe phases in the cuprates. A simple model of spinodal decomposition of the holes allows us to incorporate Coulomb repulsion and coherency strains. We find evidence for a possible stripe disordering transition, at a temperature below the pseudogap onset. Experimental searches for such a transition can provide constraints for models of stripe formation.Comment: 4 pages LaTex, 2 ps figures (U. of Miami Conference HTS99