Vortex Plastic Motion in Twinned Superconductors

TL;DR

This paper uses simulations to explore vortex motion and magnetic properties in twinned superconductors, linking microscopic vortex dynamics with macroscopic measurements without relying on electrodynamical assumptions.

Contribution

It introduces a simulation approach that models vortex dynamics and pinning effects in superconductors, connecting microscopic vortex behavior with macroscopic magnetic measurements.

Findings

Vortex motion can be linked to the pinning landscape.

Magnetic profiles reflect vortex trapping and plastic flow.

Simulations match experimental magnetic behaviors.

Abstract

We present simulations, without electrodynamical assumptions, of $B(x,y,H(t)), M(H(t))$, and $J_c(H(t))$, in hard superconductors, for a variety of twin-boundary pinning potential parameters, and for a range of values of the density and strength of the pinning sites. We numerically solve the overdamped equations of motion of up to 10^4 flux-gradient-driven vortices which can be temporarily trapped at $\sim 10^6$ pinning centers. These simulations relate macroscopic measurements (e.g., M(H), ``flame'' shaped $B(x,y)$ profiles) with the underlying microscopic pinning landscape and the plastic dynamics of individual vortices.