Thermoelectric processes of quantum normal-superconductor interfaces

Abstract

Superconducting interfaces have recently been demonstrated to contain a rich variety of effects that give rise to sizable thermoelectric responses and unexpected thermal properties, despite traditionally being considered poor thermoelectrics due to their intrinsic electron-hole symmetry. We review different mechanisms driving this response in hybrid normal-superconducting junctions, depending on the dimensionality of the mesoscopic interface. In addition to discussing heat to power conversion, cooling and heat transport, special emphasis is put on physical properties of hybrid devices that can be revealed by the thermoelectric effect.

Review paper for the special issue on "Unconventional Thermoelectric Phenomena and Materials" in Annalen der Physik. 14 pages + references, 6 figures. Accepted version