Spin dynamics and sliding density wave in Sr14Cu24O41 ladders

We use transport and Raman scattering measurements to identify the insulating state of self-doped spin 1/2 two-leg ladders of Sr14Cu24O41 as a weakly pinned, sliding density wave with non-linear conductivity and a giant dielectric response that persists to remarkably high temperatures. (C) 2003 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.