Context
New Material: LK-99
- Researchers: South Korea
- Properties: Superconducts at room temperatures.
- Synthesis: Baking process combining lanarkite and copper phosphide.
- Characteristics: Exhibits superconductivity at normal air pressure & temperatures up to 127°C.
Definition
Superconductor:
Offers near-zero resistance to electric current
Allows electric current to flow without any loss due to resistance
First Superconductor
Mercury: Exhibits superconductivity at approximately -270°C
Key Concepts
- Diamagnetism
Diamagnetism is a fundamental property of all materials, and it refers to the ability of a material to oppose an applied magnetic field
- Barden Cooper Schrieffer Pair
Explains that superconductors are diamagnetic, meaning they exhibit a strong repulsion of magnetic fields from their interior
- Meissner Effect
Related to the expulsion of a magnetic field from the interior of a superconductor during the transition into the superconducting stage
Results in trapping a magnetic field within its interior and prevents external fields from penetrating the material
Critical Temperature
- The temperature at which materials exhibit superconducting behavior
- Above this temperature, materials return to their normal state
- Tc varies from Material to Material. Example Tc of LK 99 was 127 Degree Celsius
Applications
- MRI
Utilizes superconductors to create strong magnetic fields to align hydrogen atoms
Often involves the use of cooled helium. Polarises protons in water molecules
- Tokamak Reactors
Employs superconductors to control plasma (controlling the confinement and shape of the plasma using magnetic fields) in fusion reactors
- Particle Accelerators
Applies superconductors to provide acceleration and control the direction of particle beams
- Maglev Trains
Leverages superconductors for magnetic levitation and propulsion of trains
Importance
Current Limitation: No superconductors operate at room temperature and ambient pressure (LK-99 is a notable exception if validated)
Potential Impact: Breakthroughs in superconductor technology have broad applications in medical, energy, and transportation sectors due to efficient energy transfer capabilities.