Size-selected nanocluster particles as novel building blocks for high-Tc superconducting systems
Abstract
A pairing transition at approximately 100 K has been detected in the spectra of size-selected nanocluster particles of aluminum. This observation has brought forward an entirely new family of superconducting systems. The origin of the phenomenon lies in the distinct character of these nanoparticles quantized energy spectra, namely the presence of electronic shell structure ordering. Such "superatom" particles, composed of tens to hundreds of atoms in size, lie at the intersection of precision nanoscience and the physics of quantum correlation phenomena, a placement which is highly promising for both fundamental science and future applications. The newly found transition in aluminum nanoclusters takes place at a temperature which is almost two orders of magnitude higher than the superconducting critical point in the bulk metal. As notable as this value is, it is anticipated that the transition can be raised considerably higher, possibly even toward room temperature. Building upon the promise of nanocluster-based superconductivity, it is fruitful to explore utilizing them in the design of macroscopic high-temperature superconducting assemblies and tunneling networks by deposition of size-selected cluster arrays on surfaces. The critical temperature of nanocluster-containing systems can be raised via the proximity effect, while cluster-assembled networks can combine high operating temperature with greatly enhanced current-carrying capacity. In this quest one is helped by the fact that state-of-the-art nanocluster production sources are able to generate and select particles with size and composition controlled with atom-by-atom precision. The pursuit of prototype high-Tc circuits will make use of a deposition apparatus which combines high nanocluster flux, mass filtering, and surface soft-landing capabilities. A promising configuration is that of a sensitive conducting nanotube chip with nanoclusters deposited as a discrete chain along the nanotube. Electron and atomic-force microscopy imaging will be used to optimize the deposition conditions, and exploratory nanotube conductivity measurements will probe the proximity effect device arrangement. This approach will combine high sensitivity to individual nanoparticles with the ability to fine-tune their parameters.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Sep 11, 2018
- Source ID
- W911NF1710154
Entities
People
- Vitaly V Kresin
Organizations
- Army Contracting Command
- United States Army
- University of Southern California