title: β-YbAlB4: a critical nodal metal.
abstract: We propose a model for the intrinsic quantum criticality of β-YbAlB(4), in which a vortex in momentum space gives rise to a new type of Fermi surface singularity. The unquenched angular momentum of the |J=7/2,m(J)=±5/2> Yb 4f states generates a momentum-space line defect in the hybridization between 4f and conduction electrons, leading to a quasi-two-dimensional Fermi surface with a k(⊥)(4) dispersion and a singular density of states proportional to E(-1/2). We discuss the implications of this line node in momentum space for our current understanding of quantum criticality and its interplay with topology.
authors.affiliation: Department of Physics and Astronomy, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey 08854, USA.
authors.forename: Aline
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Ramires
authors.forename: Piers
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Coleman
authors.forename: Andriy H
authors.initials: AH
authors.lastname: Nevidomskyy
authors.forename: A M
authors.initials: AM
authors.lastname: Tsvelik