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Vortex configurations in nano-structured superconductors: direct observations using Bitter decoration
Wednesday, 16 April 2008, 14.00, W2.19 Vortices in superconductors are often regarded as a distinct state of matter, representing an ensemble of interacting ‘particles’ whose density can be varied simply by changing the externally applied magnetic field. Thanks to recent technological advances, it has now become possible to achieve considerable control over vortex behaviour by creating artificial pinning landscapes or confining vortices in small (mesoscopic) superconductors. We study vortex configurations in such ‘nano-engineered’ superconductors directly, by using the well-known Bitter decoration technique, and the results will be reviewed in this talk. In particular, I will present our recent observations on several different types of nano-engineered samples: thin-film- and single-crystal-based disks of a few-micron size and perforated thin films with periodic and quasi-periodic arrangements of submicron holes. |
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