Thursday 13 March 2025
A team of researchers has made a significant breakthrough in understanding the properties of superconducting materials, specifically nickelates. These materials have been touted as potential game-changers for energy transmission and storage, as they can conduct electricity with zero resistance at relatively high temperatures.
The new study focuses on a type of nickelate called La4Ni3O10, which has been found to exhibit superconductivity under high pressure. The researchers used a technique called flux growth to create single crystals of the material, allowing them to study its properties in detail.
One of the key findings is that the material’s crystal structure changes significantly when it becomes superconducting. This change is thought to be responsible for the material’s ability to conduct electricity with zero resistance.
The researchers also found that the material’s electronic properties are highly sensitive to pressure, which could have significant implications for its potential uses. For example, it may be possible to use high-pressure techniques to create superconducting materials that can operate at lower temperatures, making them more practical for real-world applications.
The study is an important step forward in understanding the properties of nickelates and their potential applications. Further research will be needed to fully explore the material’s capabilities and to develop practical ways to harness its properties.
The researchers’ findings were published in a recent issue of the journal Nature.
Cite this article: “Nickelates Hold Promise as High-Temperature Superconductors”, The Science Archive, 2025.
Superconducting Materials, Nickelates, La4Ni3O10, High Pressure, Flux Growth, Single Crystals, Crystal Structure, Electronic Properties, Pressure Sensitivity, Energy Transmission, Energy Storage.
