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New Universality Class of Quantum Criticality in Ce- and Yb-based Heavy Fermions
A new universality class of quantum criticality emerging in itinerant
electron systems with strong local electron correlations is discussed. The
quantum criticality of a Ce- or Yb-valence transition gives us a unified
explanation for unconventional criticality commonly observed in heavy fermion
metals such as YbRh2Si2 and \beta-YbAlB4, YbCu5-xAlx, and CeIrIn5. The key
origin is due to the locality of the critical valence fluctuation mode emerging
near the quantum critical end point of the first-order valence transition,
which is caused by strong electron correlations for f electrons. Wider
relevance of this new criticality and important future measurements to uncover
its origin are also discussed.Comment: 20 pages, 4 figure