Limitations of probing field-induced response with STM

Nature

by Christopher Candelora

February 26, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Scientists have identified significant limitations in using scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) to probe field-induced responses in kagome superconductors. Research by Candelora et al. challenges earlier findings that suggested magnetic fields could alter lattice structures and charge density wave (CDW) intensities in materials like RbV3Sb5. Instead, the study attributes these changes to experimental artifacts rather than intrinsic physical effects. Kagome superconductors, such as AV3Sb5 (where A = K, Cs, Rb), exhibit unique properties including unconventional superconductivity and time-reversal symmetry breaking. Previous STM studies reported magnetic-field-dependent modifications in CDW states, but these observations now appear to be influenced by factors like tip reconfiguration and piezo creep. These artifacts can distort STM images, leading researchers to misinterpret data as field-induced changes. The implications of this discovery are significant for materials science. It highlights the need for more rigorous experimental controls when studying quantum materials under extreme conditions. By identifying and mitigating these artifacts, future research can better isolate intrinsic physical effects, improving our understanding of superconductivity and related phenomena. This work underscores the importance of critical evaluation in scientific research. Such findings not only refine our knowledge but also open new avenues for exploring how magnetic fields interact with complex materials. For researchers and engineers working on quantum technologies, these insights could lead to more reliable experimental setups and theoretical models. Ultimately, this study serves as a cautionary tale about the pitfalls of relying solely on advanced imaging techniques like STM. While powerful tools, they require careful calibration and consideration of potential artifacts to ensure accurate conclusions. This approach will be crucial for advancing our understanding of superconductivity and its applications in future technologies.

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Originally published on Nature on 2/26/2026