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Adiabatic quantum pumping at the Josephson frequency
S Russo1, J Tobiska, T M Klapwijk
1Kavli Institute of Nanoscience, Faculty of Applied Science, Delft University of Technology, Lorentzweg 1, 2628 CJ, Delft, The Netherlands.
Physical Review Letters
|October 13, 2007
Summary
We theoretically analyzed adiabatic quantum pumping in superconductor-normal metal-superconductor Josephson junctions. The study demonstrates that superconducting phase manipulation can drive a significant charge flow, enabling high-frequency operation and nanoampere currents.
Area of Science:
- Condensed Matter Physics
- Quantum Mechanics
- Superconductivity
Background:
- Superconductor-normal metal-superconductor (S-N-S) Josephson junctions are key components in superconducting electronics.
- Adiabatic quantum pumping offers a method for charge transport control.
- Understanding charge flow in mesoscopic superconducting devices is crucial for quantum technologies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To theoretically investigate adiabatic quantum pumping through a normal conductor connecting two S-N-S Josephson junctions.
- To explore the use of superconducting order parameter phases as pumping parameters.
- To determine the feasibility of generating a non-zero pumped charge and current.
Main Methods:
- Theoretical analysis of adiabatic quantum pumping.
- Modeling charge transport in S-N-S Josephson junctions.
- Utilizing the ac Josephson effect for phase manipulation.
Main Results:
- Demonstrated that a non-zero pumped charge can flow through the device by manipulating superconducting phases.
- Showcased the device's ability to operate at very high frequencies.
- Predicted achievable pumped currents on the order of a few nanoamperes.
Conclusions:
- Adiabatic quantum pumping is a viable mechanism for generating directed charge flow in S-N-S Josephson junction systems.
- The proposed device offers high-frequency operation potential for superconducting electronics.
- The theoretical findings hold experimental relevance for advancing superconducting quantum devices.
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