Nanosized superconducting constrictions

TL;DR

This paper investigates nanoscale superconducting constrictions created via STM, focusing on their properties as microscopic Josephson junctions under magnetic fields that suppress electrode superconductivity.

Contribution

It introduces a method to produce nanosized superconducting constrictions and studies their Josephson effects when electrodes are driven normal by magnetic fields.

Findings

Superconductivity persists in the nanowire despite magnetic suppression in electrodes.

Microscopic Josephson junctions exhibit unique properties at the nanoscale.

The method enables controlled fabrication of superconducting nanostructures.

Abstract

Nanowires of lead between macroscopic electrodes are produced by means of an STM. Magnetic fields may destroy the superconductivity in the electrodes, while the wire remains in the superconducting state. The properties of the resulting microscopic Josephson junctions are investigated.