Structural classification and a binary structure model for superconductors

Based on structural and bonding features, a new classification scheme of superconductors is proposed to classify them into three classes： three-dimensional, two-dimensional and molecule-assembled superconductors. The ＇sandwich model＇ for the high-Tc euprates is extended to a ＇binary structure model＇： i.e., the crystal structure of most super- conductors can be partitioned into two parts, a superconducting active component and a supplementary component. Partially metallic covalent bonding is found to be a common feature in all superconducting active components, and the electron states of the atoms in the active components usually make a dominant contribution to the energy band near the Fermi surface. Possible directions to explore new superconductors are discussed based on the structural classification and the binary structure model.

Structural classification and a binary structure model for superconductors

Based on structural and bonding features, a new classification scheme of superconductors is proposed to classify them into three classes: three-dimensional, two-dimensional and molecule-assembled superconductors. The sandwich model' for the high-T_c cuprates is extended to a `binary structure model': i.e., the crystal structure of most superconductors can be partitioned into two parts, a superconducting active component and a supplementary component. Partially metallic covalent bonding is found to be a common feature in all superconducting active components, and the electron states of the atoms in the active components usually make a dominant contribution to the energy band near the Fermi surface. Possible directions to explore new superconductors are discussed based on the structural classification and the binary structure model.