Superconductivity and Superconductors

Abstract

This article aims to address the issue of superconductivity and superconductors from the point of view of technology and applications, despite the fact that the majority of recent developments relate more to the fundamental aspects of superconductivity. The technology sections focus on the discovery of superconductivity and the phenomena and characteristics that define it. Low temperature superconductors (LTS) are discussed. Niobium and tantalum devices fall into this category. These materials are probably the most important electrode material for tunnel junction fabrication and are used in superconducting devices, eg, the superconducting quantum interference device (SQUID), X‐ray detectors, optical detectors, and mixers. Magnesium dibromide has made us aware of the possibility of the existence of new superconducting materials and this compound is detailed. High temperature ceramic superconductors are discussed and they focus mainly on the evolution of superconductivity by chemical doping of copper and its compounds. An extensive section on application includes details on the following uses: in transmission cables, research electromagnets, electromagnets for nmr and mri systems, current leads, fault current limiters, magnetically guided surgical instruments, and levitating train, to name a few.