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Equilibrium Topology of the Intermediate State in Type-I Superconductors of Different Shapes

Journal Article · · Physical Review Letters
OSTI ID:919063
A high-resolution magneto-optical technique was used to analyze flux patterns in the intermediate state of bulk Pb samples of various shapes--cones, hemispheres, and discs. Combined with the measurements of macroscopic magnetization, these results allowed studying the effect of bulk pinning and geometric barrier on the equilibrium structure of the intermediate state. Zero-bulk pinning discs and slabs show hysteretic behavior due to topological hysteresis--flux tubes on penetration and lamellae on flux exit. (Hemi)spheres and cones do not have a geometric barrier and show no hysteresis with flux tubes dominating the intermediate field region in both regimes. It is concluded that flux tubes represent the equilibrium topology of the intermediate state.
Research Organization:
Ames Laboratory (AMES), Ames, IA
Sponsoring Organization:
USDOE - Office of Science (SC)
DOE Contract Number:
AC02-07CH11358
OSTI ID:
919063
Report Number(s):
IS-J 7259
Journal Information:
Physical Review Letters, Journal Name: Physical Review Letters Journal Issue: 25 Vol. 98; ISSN 0031-9007; ISSN PRLTAO
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English

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