Chinese scientists have achieved a remarkable breakthrough in materials science with the discovery of a new high-temperature superconductor that boasts an impressive superconducting volume fraction of 86 percent. This significant advancement was announced by Fudan University on Thursday.

The research team, led by Professor Zhao Jun from the Department of Physics at Fudan University, successfully synthesized high-quality trilayer nickelate single crystal samples. The superconducting volume fraction achieved in these samples is comparable to that of established cuprate high-temperature superconductors, thus providing robust evidence for the bulk superconducting properties of nickelates.

This important study has been published in the prestigious international academic journal Nature, highlighting the significant impact of this achievement on the field of superconductivity research.

Superconductors are defined as materials that can exhibit zero electrical resistance and complete diamagnetism when subject to specific temperature conditions. They hold vast potential for applications in various advanced technologies, including power transmission and storage, medical imaging, magnetic levitation trains, and quantum computing.

The discovery of high-temperature superconductivity in the 1980s fundamentally transformed the scientific understanding of this phenomenon, overturning the long-held belief that superconductivity could only exist at extremely low temperatures.

In discussing the implications of their research, Professor Zhao emphasized that a crucial goal in this area of study is to identify new high-temperature superconductors. Such discoveries could significantly enhance the understanding of the underlying mechanisms of high-temperature superconductivity and unlock new application possibilities.

The synthesis of these nickelate single crystal samples involves extremely stringent conditions, requiring a specific high oxygen pressure environment, elevated temperatures, and a marked temperature gradient. These demanding parameters underline the complexity involved in this groundbreaking research.

Through a series of meticulous efforts, the research team successfully developed high-purity trilayer nickelate single crystal samples utilizing a high-pressure optical floating zone technique. This innovative approach has proven essential in achieving the desired material properties.

(With input from Xinhua)