Phase Slip Phenomena in Ultra-Thin Superconducting Wires

Abstract

We present results on phase-slip phenomena in a superconducting wire which can be considered as quasi-one dimensional (1D) if its characteristic transverse dimension √ σ (σ being the cross section) is smaller than the coherence length (T). The shape of the bottom part of the resistive transition R(T) of a 1D superconducting strip is described by the model of phase slips activation. If the wire is infinitely long, then there is always a finite probability that a small part of the sample is instantly driven normal.

Current-Phase Relationship, Thermal and Quantum Phase Slips in Superconducting Nanowires Made on a Scaffold Created Using Adhesive Tape

“…The Al-1 fit in Figure b is in good agreement with the data, which indicates that the resistance tail could originate from the QPS. Now we compare our results to the experiment of Zgirski et al Their R ( T ) measurements show that homogeneous wires which are thinner than ∼15 nm in diameter can show a pronounced QPS behavior. Homogeneous wires which are thicker than that, say ∼17 nm in diameter, show only signatures of thermally activated phase slips.…”