Applications of Superconductors

SQUIDS
• A squid, or a superconducting quantum interference device, is
a type of magnetometer that is used to measure very small
magnetic fields.
• The device consists of a superconducting loop that is
interrupted by a weak link, such as a Josephson junction, and
is used to detect magnetic fields by measuring the effect they
have on the superconducting current flowing through the loop.
• Superconductors are materials that exhibit zero electrical
resistance and perfect diamagnetism, and the weak link in a
squid allows for the manipulation of the superconducting
current, making it possible to measure very small magnetic
fields.
• A Josephson junction is a type of weak link
between two superconducting materials.
• The Josephson junction can operate in two
modes, direct current (DC) and alternating
current (AC).
• In the DC mode, a constant voltage bias is
applied to the Josephson junction, which
results in a constant current flowing through it.
• In the AC mode, a time-varying voltage is
applied to the Josephson junction, which
results in a time-varying current. The AC
Josephson effect is used to generate high-
frequency signals and is an important
component in various types of
superconducting electronics, such as
superconducting quantum interference devices
(SQUIDs) and microwave oscillators.
• Both DC and AC Josephson junctions are
crucial components in various
superconducting applications, as they allow
for the manipulation and measurement of
superconducting currents, making it possible
to detect and generate very small signals.
SQUID
 Maglev Vehicles
• Maglev (magnetic levitation) vehicles are
transportation systems that use magnetic
levitation to lift and propel the vehicle above a
guide way, allowing it to travel with no
friction. This makes it possible for maglev
vehicles to achieve high speeds and energy
efficiency compared to traditional wheeled
trains.