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Updated: Oct 12, 2025
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Scalable Quantum Integrated Circuits on Superconducting Two-Dimensional Electron Gas Platform
Published on: August 2, 2019
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Long range and highly tunable interaction between local spins coupled to a superconducting condensate
Felix Küster1, Sascha Brinker2, Samir Lounis3,4
1Max Planck Institute of Microstructure Physics, Halle, 06120, Germany.
Nature Communications
|November 19, 2021
Summary
Researchers precisely controlled magnetic interactions in superconductors using atomic manipulation. This breakthrough enables tuning quantum properties and designing advanced magneto-superconducting interfaces for quantum technologies.
Area of Science:
- Quantum Technologies
- Condensed Matter Physics
- Materials Science
Background:
- Interfacing magnetism with superconducting condensates is key for novel quantum technologies.
- Controlling magnetic interactions at the atomic level is crucial for rational design.
Purpose of the Study:
- To demonstrate atomic-scale control over spin interactions mediated by a superconducting condensate.
- To explore the tunability of these interactions for quantum applications.
Main Methods:
- Utilized atomic manipulation techniques to position Chromium (Cr) atoms on a Niobium (Nb) superconductor.
- Employed scanning tunneling spectroscopy to sense the coupling between local spins.
Main Results:
- Achieved atomic-scale precision in controlling the distance and relative orientation of local spins.
- Revealed highly anisotropic magnetic interactions persisting over long distances.
- Demonstrated the ability to induce a quantum phase transition by tuning interatomic distance and direction.
Conclusions:
- Atomic manipulation offers unprecedented control over spin interactions in superconductors.
- This tunability is vital for realizing topological superconductivity.
- Enables rational design of advanced magneto-superconducting interfaces.
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