Recent developments in high temperature superconductivity science and technology

by Paul C.W. Chu** (Dep. of Physics & Texas Center for Superconductivity, Univ. of Houston & Lawrence Berkeley National)

Tuesday 22 May 2001, 16:30 → 17:30 Europe/Zurich

500/1-001 - Main Auditorium (CERN)

In the ensuing 14 years after the discovery of high temperature superconductivity (HTS), great progress has been made in all areas of materials, science and technology. More than 150 compounds have been found with a transition temperature (Tc) higher than that prior to the discovery. They belong to four compound systems of cuprate, bismuthade, fullerite and boride with the current record high Tc of 134 K in the Hg-based cuprate at ambient and 164 K under pressure. Except the cuprate, all other systems, whose highest Tc is below 40 K, behave as a BCS superconductor. For the cuprates, a generic phase diagram has emerged concerning the occurrence of high temperature superconductivity. However, a generally accepted theory for cuprates is yet to be developed due to the ever increasing complexity revealed by the compounds. Many prototypes of devices, both for small and large current applications, have been constructed and tested successfully. I shall briefly summarize the current status of HTS research and development. Attention will be also paid to the development of HTS conductors, including the newly discovered MgB2. Some of the recent results obtained by my group will also be presented and discussed.

**Also at Hong Kong University of Science and Technology after July 1, 2001

Organiser(s): Jasper Kirkby / EP Division

Note: * Tea & coffee will be served at 16.00 hrs.