Researchers at the University of Maryland Quantum Materials Center have discovered a new spin-triplet superconductor, uranium ditelluride (UTe2). This rare type of superconductor, where electrons form pairs with the same spin direction, could be crucial for building robust quantum computers.
Key findings:
– UTe2 exhibits two different superconducting phases when exposed to high magnetic fields
– The second phase exists in extremely high magnetic fields (up to 65 T)
– This behavior challenges current theoretical understanding of superconductivity
– Spin-triplet pairing could enable more stable quantum computing applications
The discovery was accidental during research on a different magnetic compound. UTe2’s unique properties, including high critical magnetic fields and spin-triplet pairing, make it a promising candidate for quantum computing applications. Further research is needed to fully understand its behavior and potential applications.
Source: https://www.nist.gov/blogs/taking-measure/unboxing-new-spin-triplet-superconductor
Keywords: superconductivity, spin-triplet pairing, critical field, Cooper pair, magnetic field
