Observation of zero-energy modes in Gd atomic chains on superconducting Nb(110)

In this experimental study, we use scanning tunneling microscopy and spectroscopy to investigate Yu-Shiba-Rusinov states induced by 4f-shell rare-earth Gd adatoms on a superconducting Nb(110) surface. We engineer Gd atom chains along the substrate’s $[1\bar{1}0]$ and $[001]$ directions, revealing distinct behaviors in differently oriented chains. $[1\bar{1}0]$-oriented Gd chains exhibit spectroscopic features at their ends, identifying them as trivial edge states, while $[001]$-oriented Gd chains display zero-energy edge states, suggesting non-trivial nature. Notably, Gd chains with four atoms–independent of their particular orientation–exhibit a uniform zero-energy mode along the entire chain. These findings call for further research and a theoretical framework to describe rare-earth-based structures on superconductors.