Researchers identify first type I superconductor breaking time-reversal symmetry
Scientists in India report finding the first type I superconductor that breaks time-reversal symmetry in a study published on October 2, 2026.
New material defies previous rules
Until now, only type II materials were known to exhibit this specific quantum behavior. The new findings show that YbSb2 crystals can generate internal magnetic fields while remaining type I. This discovery challenges the long-held belief that such properties belong exclusively to type II superconductors.
Study published in peer review
The team grew single crystals of YbSb2 at the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Bhopal. They verified the material type by testing its reaction to external magnetic fields. The results appear in the journal Physical Review Letters.
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