Nonlinear electrodynamics and its possible connection to relativistic superconductivity: an example

Abstract This work presents an illustrative example suggesting a potential connection between the Heisenberg–Euler (HE) model of nonlinear electrodynamics (NLED) and relativistic superconductivity. Within a cylindrical coordinate system, we derive nonlinear Maxwell’s equations from the HE Lagrangian to the fourth order in the electromagnetic (EM) field. By considering static electric and magnetic fields with Gaussian radial profiles, we compute the corresponding HE current density. In parallel, we explore relativistic type-II superconductivity in analogy with the Ginzburg–Landau (GL) theory. We calculate the vortex-supercurrent density of the condensate and propose a link between this current and the HE current. This connection enables the derivation of the relativistic order parameter state. The problem considered in this article may contribute to the understanding of superconductivity in strong EM environments within the broader framework of NLED.