Reversibility of Superconducting Nb Weak Links Driven by the Proximity Effect in a Quantum Interference Device

Abstract

We demonstrate the role of proximity effect in the thermal hysteresis of superconducting constrictions. From the analysis of successive thermal instabilities in the transport characteristics of micron-size superconducting quantum interference devices with a well-controlled geometry, we obtain a complete picture of the different thermal regimes. These determine whether the junctions are hysteretic or not. Below the superconductor critical temperature, the critical current switches from a classical weak-link behavior to one driven by the proximity effect. The associated small amplitude of the critical current makes it robust with respect to the heat generation by phase-slips, leading to a non-hysteretic behavior.

arXiv comment6 pages, 5 figures, including Supplementary Information

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• Josephson Coupling in the Dissipative State of a Thermally Hysteretic $\mu$-SQUID
• Controlling hysteresis in superconducting constrictions with a resistive shunt
• Stochastic resonance in thermally bistable Josephson weak-links and micro-SQUIDs
• Current detection using a Josephson parametric upconverter
• Micron size superconducting quantum interference devices of lead (Pb)
• Magnetization Reversal Across Multiple Serial Barriers in a Single Fe${}_3$O${}_4$ Nanoparticle
• Stability of thermally bistable states and their switching in superconducting weak link
• A thermal model with AC Josephson effect for a shunted superconducting weak-link