Scientists from IISc Bangalore have invented a device with superconducting nanocrystal structure which is capable of exhibiting superconductivity at high temperature and under ambient pressure conditions.
BACKGROUND
Nanocrystal structures (NCs) are nano-sized particles which are typically used in optical applications including light-emitting devices, diode lasers, photovoltaic cells etc. Superconductors are materials that do not exhibit resistance to the passage of current. Emergence of superconductivity is observed by drop in resistance to passage of current below transition temperature or appearance of strong diamagnetism or both. Superconductors do not exhibit perfect diamagnetism due to polycrystallinity and impurities. Superconducting crystals have shown weak diamagnetism due to size effects. Since, the existing superconductors show superconductivity only at low temperatures and high pressures, it is considered as a limitation for medical applications. Also, superconductors having transition temperatures above room temperature can be used for transport of electricity in power grids.
TECHNOLOGY
The invention discloses method of preparing superconducting nanocrystals that can be employed to attain superconductivity at higher temperatures which will enable the devices to operate at ambient and elevated temperatures. Since these nanocrystals exhibit superconductivity at higher temperatures, they can be utilized to create magnets, qubits for quantum computation, current carrying interconnects in power grids as well as small scale devices, field generators in maglev trains, as power storage devices, field sensors and as electromagnetic field guides, concentrators and shields.
COMMERCIALIZATION
IISc has filed an application for patent in Indian Patent Office for this invention. We are seeking for a commercial partner for licensing, collaboration and development of this technology.