Large enhancement of superconducting transition temperature in single-element superconducting rhenium by shear strain.

Finding a physical approach for increasing the superconducting transition temperature (T) is a challenge in the field of material science. Shear strain effects on the superconductivity of rhenium were investigated using magnetic measurements, X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, and first-principles calculations. A large shear strain reduces the grain size and simultaneously expands the unit cells, resulting in an increase in T.