Physics and Materials Science of High Temperature Superconductors, II represents the results of a fruitful dialogue between physicists and materials scientists which took place under the auspices of a NATO Advanced Study Institute in Porto Carras, Greece, between 18 and 31 August, 1991. It builds on and carries forward the success of NATO ASI 181 published in 1990. The theoretical side of the discussions reveal the basic premise of the phenomenological and Ginzburg-Landau theories of superconductivity, the implications of short coherence length, long penetration depth, the melting of flux lattices, and other matters, while the materials science includes discussions of microstructures, local inhomogeneities, deviations from ideal chemistry, the effects of systematic errors in materials preparation, the definition of imperfections, and the utilization of common materials analysis techniques. The reader will be made aware of the potential significance of Angstrom scale structural and chemical details, and the need to consider basic theoretical concepts when designing procedures to process viable, solid conductors, specifically the effects of oxygen stoichiometry and deviations from it, as well as the microstructural demands on pinning in the light of very short coherence lengths.

Proceedings of the NATO Advanced Study Institute on High Temperature Superconductors -- Physics and Materials Science, Bad Windsheim, Germany, August 13-26, 1989

This book presents the current knowledge about superconductivity in high Tc cuprate superconductors. There is a large scientific interest and great potential for technological applications. The book discusses all the aspects related to all families of cuprate superconductors discovered so far. Beginning with the phenomenon of superconductivity, the book covers: the structure of cuprate HTSCs, critical currents, flux pinning, synthesis of HTSCs, proximity effect and SQUIDs, possible applications of high Tc superconductors and theories of superconductivity. Though a high Tc theory is still awaited, this book describes the present scenario and BCS and RVB theories. The second edition was significantly extended by including film-substrate lattice matching and buffer layer considerations in thin film HTSCs, brick-wall microstructure in the epitaxial films, electronic structure of the CuO2 layer in cuprates, s-wave and d-wave coupling in HTSCs and possible scenarios of theories of high Tc superconductivity.

This book explores the fascinating field of high-temperature superconductivity. Basic concepts–including experimental techniques and theoretical issues–are discussed in a clear, systematic manner. In addition, the most recent research results in the measurements, materials synthesis and processing, and characterization of physical properties of high-temperature superconductors are presented. Researchers and students alike can use this book as a comprehensive introduction not only to superconductivity but also to materials-related research in electromagnetic ceramics. Special features of the book: - presents recent developments in vortex-state properties, defects characterization, and phase equilibrium - introduces basic concepts for experimental techniques at low temperatures and high magnetic fields - provides a valuable reference for materials-related research - discusses potential industrial applications of high-temperature superconductivity - includes novel processing technologies for thin film and bulk materials - suggests areas of research and specific problems whose solution can make high-Tc superconductors a practical reality

Since the publication of Physical Properties of High Temperature Superconductors I, research in the field of high temperature superconductivity has continued at a rapid pace. Volume II will contain chapters on some of the major areas of activity which were not covered extensively in Volume I: structure, microstructure, thermodynamics, oxygen stoichiometry effects, nuclear magnetic and quadrupole resonance, Hall effect, electronic structure, and the pairing state. Like Volume I, it will present authoritative and comprehensive reviews written by recognized experts in the field. This book should be useful to all students, scientists, and engineers who desire to know more about high temperature superconductivity.

Drawing from physics, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, ceramics, and metallurgy, high-temperature superconductivity (HTSC) spans nearly the entire realm of materials science. This volume presents each of those disciplines at an introductory level, such that readers will ultimately be able to read the literature in the field.