Non-topological edge-localized Yu-Shiba-Rusinov states in CrBr3/NbSe2 heterostructures

Abstract

Topological superconductivity is predicted to emerge in certain magnet-superconductor hybrid systems. Here, we revisit the heterostructure of insulating monolayer CrBr3 and NbSe2, for which different conclusions on the presence of topological superconductivity have been reported. Using low-temperature scanning tunneling microscopy and (shot noise) spectroscopy, we find that the superconducting gap well inside the CrBr3 islands is not affected by magnetism. At the island edges, we observe Yu-Shiba-Rusinov (YSR) states at a variety of in-gap positions, including zero energy. The absence of topological superconductivity is verified by extensive dI/dV measurements at the CrBr3 island edges. Our results ask for a more detailed understanding of the interaction between magnetic insulators and superconductors.