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The ω-SQUIPT as a tool to phase-engineer Josephson topological materials
E Strambini1, S D'Ambrosio1, F Vischi1
1NEST, Istituto Nanoscienze-CNR and Scuola Normale Superiore, Piazza S. Silvestro 12, I-56127 Pisa, Italy.
Nature Nanotechnology
|November 8, 2016
Summary
Researchers created a three-terminal Josephson interferometer. This device controls transitions between gapped and gapless states, demonstrating topological protection crucial for advanced quantum technologies and materials.
Area of Science:
- Condensed Matter Physics
- Quantum Information Science
Background:
- Superconducting Josephson junctions enable tailoring of quantum states in nanoscale weak links.
- These structures can realize exotic topologies, supporting Majorana bound states for quantum technologies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To realize and investigate a three-terminal Josephson interferometer.
- To demonstrate the topological nature of phase-controlled transitions between gapped and gapless states.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of a three-terminal Josephson interferometer using a proximized nanosized weak link.
- Tunnelling spectroscopy measurements to probe electronic states.
Main Results:
- Observed transitions between gapped (insulating) and gapless (conducting) states controlled by superconducting phase configuration.
- Demonstrated that gapless states occur between gapped states of different topological indices, confirming topological protection.
- Confirmed the non-local property of the observed topology across the weak link.
Conclusions:
- The realized interferometer allows phase engineering of artificial topological materials.
- The topological transitions are pivotal for advancing quantum information schemes and quantum technologies.
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