Constraints on Topological Defect Formation in First-order Superconducting Phase Transitions

In this work we address the impact of a cubic term addition to the Ginzburg-Landau mean-field potential, and study the consequences on the description of first order phase transitions in superconductors. Constraints are obtained from experiment and used to assess consequences on topological defect creation. No fundamental changes in either the Kibble-Zurek or Hindmarsh-Rajantie predictions are found.