Quantum-to-classical crossover for Andreev billiards in a magnetic field

M. C. Goorden, Ph. Jacquod, C. W. J. Beenakker

Published 2005-05-09, updated 2005-09-19Version 2

We extend the existing quasiclassical theory for the superconducting proximity effect in a chaotic quantum dot, to include a time-reversal-symmetry breaking magnetic field. Random-matrix theory (RMT) breaks down once the Ehrenfest time $\tau_E$ becomes longer than the mean time $\tau_D$ between Andreev reflections. As a consequence, the critical field at which the excitation gap closes drops below the RMT prediction as $\tau_E/\tau_D$ is increased. Our quasiclassical results are supported by comparison with a fully quantum mechanical simulation of a stroboscopic model (the Andreev kicked rotator).