This invention is related to the field of high critical temperature Tc superconductivity and applications.
A class of superconductors, henceforth referred to as the high-Tc superconductors, was first discovered by Bednorz and Muller and disclosed in the article “Possible High-Tc Superconductivity in the BaLaCuO System, Zeitschrift fr Phsik, B64, 189 (1986)”. Since then several kinds of this class of superconductors of the cuprate type have been discovered. The Bi-based cuprate with critical temperature Tc≈105K was disclosed in “H. Maeda, et al., J. App. Phys. 27, L209 (1988)” and in “U.S. Pat. No. 7,132,288, Maeda et al. January 1989”, The Tl-based cuprate with Tc≈125K was disclosed in “Z. Z. Sheng and A. M. Hermann, Nature, 332, 55 (1988)” and in “U.S. Pat. No. 5,082,825 Hermann August 1988”. The Hg-based cuprate with Tc≈135K was disclosed in “A. Schilling, et al., Nature, 363, 56 (1993)” and in “L. Gao, et al., Phys. Rev. B, 50, 4260 (1994)” and in “U.S. Pat. No. 5,578,551 Chu et al. November 1996”. Up to now the highest critical temperature Tc is about 164K for Hg-based cuprate under high pressure. Now a main aim of the field of superconductivity is to understand the mechanism of the high-Tc superconductivity and to find high-Tc superconductors with the critical temperature Tc>300K.
Recently a quantum gauge model of high-Tc superconductivity is presented by the inventor (c.f. Sze Kui Ng, Gauge model of high-Tc superconductivity, the 26th Conference on Low Temperature Physics, Beijing, August 2011, and Sze Kui Ng, arXiv:math/0004151v3). This model unifies the electron-electron interaction and the electron-phonon interaction for the forming of Cooper pairs of electrons of superconductivity. In this gauge model, there is a seagull vertex term:
where the complex variable Z represents an electron (Z* is the complex conjugate of Z), the real variable A represents the photon gauge field, and
is a parameter where h is an energy parameter proportional to the Planck constant and the parameter κ=kBT where kB is the Boltzmann constant and T is the absolute temperature, and e0 is the (bare) electric charge. In this gauge model, while there is a term of order e0 gives the usual repulsive Coulomb potential of order e02 between electrons, this seagull vertex term of order e02 gives a small attractive potential of order e04 between electrons. Since for a crystal material the repulsive Coulomb potential between electrons is balanced by the attractive potential from phonons (or protons) interacting with electrons, this small attractive potential can be used as an additional electron-electron interaction for the forming of Cooper pairs of electrons. By a renormalization group method, this gauge model gives a unified description of superconductivity and magnetism including antiferromagnetism, pseudogap phenomenon, paramagnetic Meissner effect, Type I and Type II supeconductivity and high-Tc superconductivity. In this gauge model, the doping mechanism of superconductivity is found. It is shown that the critical temperature Tc is related to the ionization energies of elements and can be computed by a formula of Tc. For the high-Tc superconductors such as La2-xSrxCuO4, YBa2Cu3O7, and MgB2, the computational results of Tc agree with the experimental results.
In this gauge model of high-Tc superconductivity the inventor show that the phase of high-Tc superconductivity (and the conventional Type II superconductivity) appears at the phase line h2=3 κ2. It is shown that for a fixed κ the increasing of the doping parameter x of the cuprates such as La2-xSrxCuO4 gives the increasing of h. Thus the phase plane (κ, h) of phase diagram corresponds to the phase plane (T, x) of phase diagram of superconductors such as La2-xSrxCuO4. It is shown that this increasing of h by the increasing of x gives the doping mechanism of high-Tc superconductivity.
In this gauge model of high-Tc superconductivity we have the following nontrivial fixed point of the renormalization group equation:
where A, B, C are coefficients in terms of the factor (ih+κ)−1, ε>0 is a parameter which is analogous to the ε in the e-expansion of the Ginzburg-Landau model of superconductivity in statistical physics. As analogous to the GL model the parameter ε is related to the dimension of the space that d=3−ε is the (fractional) dimension of the space, and is related to the ultraviolet limit; and the parameter b is related to the infrared limit.
From the fixed point (1) we have two cases. The Case 1) is with 0<ε<<1 which gives the three dimensional (3D) Type I and Type II conventional superconductivity while the Case 2) is with ε=1 which gives the quasi-2D high-Tc superconductivity. From the expansion of the factor 26CB2=(ih+ε)−12 in (1), the phase plane (T, x) of the phase diagram of high-Tc superconductivity is derived.
A method of composing superconductors with the critical temperature Tc>300K is disclosed. This method is from the abovementioned gauge model of high-Tc superconductivity wherein the doping mechanism of superconductivity is found. A class of superconductors composed by this method is the class of intermetallics with a hexagonal crystal structure consisting of three layers wherein the middle layer is as the conducting layer.
A kind of superconductors with hexagonal crystal structure composed by this method is the AlB2-type intermetallic superconductors which are obtained by doping the AlB2-type intermetallics such as A1-xCaxCa2 (0.1≦x≦0.9) wherein A=Sr, Ba.
A kind of superconductors with hexagonal crystal structure composed by this method is the AlB2-type intermetallic superconductors which are obtained by doping the AlB2-type intermetallics such as Sr1-xAxAlSi (0.1≦x≦0.9) wherein A=Ca, Ba.
A kind of superconductors with hexagonal crystal structure composed by this method is the AlB2-type intermetallic superconductors which are obtained by doping the AlB2-type intermetallics such as La1-xBaxCuGe and Gd1-xCaxCuSi (0.02≦x≦1).
A kind of superconductors with hexagonal crystal structure composed by this method is the CaCu5-type intermetallic superconductors which are obtained by doping CaCu5-type intermetallics such as La1-xAxCu5, Y1-xAxCu5, Gd1-xAxCu5, Mm1-xAxCu5, (A=Ca, Sr, Mm denotes Mischmetal), LCu5(1-x)Ni5x(L=La, Y, Mm, 0.02≦x≦1), and Sr1-xCaxCu5 (0.01≦x≦0.9), and La1-xSrx(1-y)CaxyCu5 (0.01≦x,y≦0.9), In particular the CaCu5-type intermetallics LaNi5 and MmNi5 are superconductors with the critical temperature Tc>300K.
It is shown that the CaCu5-type intermetallic superconductors are with high critical current densities and thus they are applicable for the transmission of electricity.
In this phase diagram the parameter κ corresponds to T by the relation is κ=kBT. The line a denotes the phase line κ2=3h2 (of the phase plane (κ, h)) in the phase plane (T, x). The line b denotes the cross-over line κ2=h2 (of the phase plane (κ, h)) in the phase plane (T, x). The line c denotes the phase line h2=3 κ2 (of the phase plane (κ, h)) of superconductivity in the phase plane (T, x). Then the line d denotes the cross-over line h2=(2+√{square root over (3)})2κ2 (of the phase plane (κ, h)) in the phase plane (T, x). In this phase diagram the original phase line h2=3 κ2 with the part denoted by the dash line is bifurcated into the phase line h2=3 κ2 denoted by the line c in the phase plane (T, x).
The two lines a and c are the two basic phase lines for antiferromagnetism and superconductivity respectively. In this phase diagram we have two more phase lines b and d. The region between a and b is the region of spin density waves and region of insulator. The region between b and c is the region of charge density waves and region of semiconductivity. The region between a and c is usually called the region of pseudogap. The region between c and d is the region of paramagnetic Messiner effect and is usually called the region of non-Fermi liquid (We may also call this region as the extended region of pseudogap). The right side of d is the region of normal metallic state. Then the bifurcation of the phase line c gives the region of high-Tc superconductivity. Then the left side of a is the region of antiferromagnetism (The region of antiferromagnetism is also obtained by the bifurcation of the phase line a where a part of this region of antiferromagnetism obtained by bifurcation is at the outside of this phase diagram in
Then let us consider the special phase line e. This phase line e is the cross-over line from the phase of two dimensional phenomenon (i.e. the Case 2) with ε=1) to the phase of three dimensional phenomenon (i.e. the Case 1) with 0<ε<<1). Above this line is the phase of two dimensional (2D) phenomenon and below this line is the phase of three dimensional (3D) phenomenon. In the 2D phase the region in the bifurcation region of superconductivity is the region of high-Tc superconductivity and in the 3D phase the region in the bifurcation region of superconductivity is the region of conventional Type II superconductivity. In the 3D phase the region between the line c and the line d is the region of Type I superconductivity (In the 2D phase this region between the line c and the line d is the extended region of pseudogap).
Thus this phase diagram in
In this gauge model of high-Tc superconductivity the doping mechanism of superconductivity is found. Also a method of computation of critical temperature Tc of superconductors is found. In particular the doping mechanism of superconductivity and the computation of the Tc of the intermetallic MgB2 (U.S. Pat. No. 6,956,011 Akimitsu et al., October 2005) are given. This intermetallic MgB2 is of the hexagonal AlB2-type crystal structure. In this invention we extend the doping mechanism of superconductivity and the computation of Tc of MgB2 to other intermetallics. To this end let us first consider the intermetallic Mg1-xBexB2 (0≦x≦1). This intermetallic is of the AlB2-type. For the doping mechanism of superconductivity of this intermetallic, let us consider the following function:
f(x)=737.7(1−x)+899.5x (2)
where 737.7 kJ/mol and 899.5 kJ/mol are approximately the first ionization energies of Mg and Be respectively. This function gives the relation that the increasing of x gives the increasing of h. We have 737.7<800.6<899.5 where 800.6 kJ/mol is the first ionization energy of B. Let us set the following relation (A main point is that 800.6−737.7 is small):
f(x0)=737.7(1−x0)+899.5x0=800.6 (3)
for some x0 (0<x0<1). When (3) holds (or approximately holds), the channel connecting the two states of first ionization energy of B and Mg is opened (We notice that the relation (3) gives the degeneration of electron states. The resulting degenerate state gives a Jahn-Teller electron-phonon interaction effect which is described as a channel opening. Let us call (3) and the resulting Jahn-Teller effect of degeneration as the degenerate state of channel opening). This channel opening gives a freedom of electrons of B with a direction orthogonal to the B plane. By this freedom of electric current, the electrons of a cluster of B atoms in a unit cell can be coupled to the electrons of cluster of B atoms in another unit cell to form Cooper pairs. In this way the Cooper pairs of s-valence (and nonvalence) electrons of B, the Cooper pairs of s-valence electrons of Mg can be formed (In other words, through this channel opening the s-valence (or nonvalence) electrons of B and s-valence electrons of Mg can transit from the valence (or nonvalence) band to the conduction band from which Cooper pairs of these electrons can be formed by the attractive electron-electron interaction from the seagull vertex term). Thus this channel opening gives the 3D region (π-band) of conventional superconductivity. From this 3D conventional superconductivity we have the existence of quasi-2D bifurcation region (σ-band) of high-Tc superconductivity given by the B plane. We notice that x0≈0. This agrees with the experiment that the state of superconductivity of Mg1-xBexB2 is in the doping range 0≦x<1 and that MgB2 is in the state of superconductivity (c.f. J. Nagamatsu, et al., Nature, 410, 63 (2001); I. Felner, arXiv: cond-mat/0102508). When (3) approximately holds, the s-valence electrons of B are in the state of first ionization energy of B. Then the s-nonvalence electrons of B are in the state of second ionization energy of B. Also the s-valence electrons of Mg are in the state of first ionization energy of Mg. The s-valence electrons of B and Mg in the state of first ionization energy are in the opened channel of 3D superconductivity while the s-nonvalence electrons of B in the state of second ionization energy of B are for the quasi-2D high-Tc superconductivity of the B plane. Thus the maximum value of the energy parameter |hB1| and |hB2| of the s-valence and nonvalence electrons of B are proportional to the first and second ionization energies of B respectively, and the maximum value of the energy parameter |hMg| of the s-valence electrons of Mg is proportional to the first ionization energy of Mg. Then, from the state of superconductivity h2=3 κ2 we have the following formula of Tc of MgB2:
where ΔMgB2=h=6|hB1|+6|hB2|+|hMg| is the energy gap of superconductivity of MgB2, where
is from the 12 valence of nonvalence s-electrons of the B atoms in a hexagonal unit cell of MgB2. From the table of ionization energies, the first and second ionization energies of B are approximately equal to 800.6 kJ/mol and 2427.1 kJ/mol. Let |hB1|≈ξ800.6 kJ/mol and |hB2≈ξ2427.1 kJ/mol, |hMg|≈ξ737.7 kJ/mol where ξ≈2.83133971·10−5 is a proportional constant determined from the computation of Tc of Nb. Then from (4) we have:
T
c≈39.53K (Computed value of Tc of MgB2) (5)
This agrees with the experimental value of Tc≈39K of MgB2. We notice that the energy gap ΔMgB2=h=6|hB1|+6|hB2|+|hMg| contains the sum of two energy gaps Δ1=6|hB1| and Δ2=6|hB2|. We have that Δ1 correspond to the conventional 3D superconductivity and Δ2 correspond to the quasi-2D high-Tc superconductivity. Thus we have the two-gap superconductivity. This agrees with the phenomenon of two-gap superconductivity of MgB2 (c.f. A. Y. Liu, et al., Phys. Rev. Lett., 87, 0870051 (2001); X. K. Chan, et al., Phys. Rev. Lett., 87, 1570021 (2001)). In the following examples the principle of the doping mechanism of superconductivity applied to this MgB2 is applied to other intermetallics.
Let us consider an intermetallic of the form Sr1-xCaxGa2 (0≦x≦1). We have that CaGa2 and SrGa2 can be formed in the AlB2-type phase as shown in “L. H. Bennett and R. E. Watson, in Theory of Alloy Phase Formation, ed. L. H. Bennett, p. 425 (The Metallurgical Society AIME 1980)”. Thus the intermetallic Sr1-xCaxGa2 can also be formed in the AlB2-type phase, with the unit cell as shown in
For the doping mechanism of superconductivity let us consider the following function:
f(x)=6491x0+5500(1−x0) (6)
where 6491 kJ/mol and 5500 kJ/mole are approximately the fourth ionization energies of Ca and Sr respectively. This function gives the relation that the increasing of x gives the increasing of h. Then we set the following relation of the degenerate state of channel opening:
f(x0)=6491x0+5500(1−x0)=6200 (7)
for some x0 (0≦x0≦1) where 6200 kJ/mol is approximately the fourth ionization energy of Ga. A main point is that 6200 is close to 6491. When this relation holds (or approximately holds), the channel connecting the two states of fourth ionization energy of Ca and Ga can be opened. This channel opening gives a freedom of electric current with a direction orthogonal to the Ga plane. From this freedom of electric current, the Cooper pairs of the 3s, 3p-level electrons of Ga and Ca can be formed (In other words, through this channel opening the 3s, 3p-level electrons of Ga and Ca can transit from the valence band to the conduction band from which Cooper pairs of these electrons can be formed by the attractive electron-electron interaction from the seagull vertex term). Thus this channel opening gives the 3D region of conventional superconductivity. From this 3D conventional superconductivity we have the existence of quasi-2D bifurcation region of high-Tc superconductivity given by the Ga plane.
We notice that x0≈0.706. Then Sr1-xCaxGa2 comes into the range of high-Tc superconductivity when x0≦x≦x1 for some x1 such that 0<x0<x1≦1.
When (7) holds (or approximately holds) giving the channel opening, the 3s, 3p-level electrons of Ga in the Ga plane are in the basic state of fourth ionization energy and the 3s, 3p-level electrons of Ca are in the basic state of fourth ionization energy, and that other states are to be reached from these two states. Further the 3s, 3p-level electrons of Ga and Ca are unified to occupy a sequence of states such that the 3s, 3p-level electrons of Ga in the Ga plane occupy the higher states while the 3s, 3p-level electrons of Ca occupy the lower states.
Thus, as MgB2, the 3s, 3p-level electrons of Ga are in the state of fifth ionization energy of Ga; and the 3s, 3p-level electrons of Ca are in the basic state of fourth ionization energy. The 3s, 3p-level electrons of Ca in the basic state of fourth ionization energy are in the opened channel of 3D superconductivity, while the 3s, 3p-level electrons of Ga in the state of fifth ionization energy are for the quasi-2D high-Tc superconductivity of the Ga plane.
Then when (7) holds (or approximately holds) giving the channel opening, the Cooper pairs of the s, p-valence electrons of Ga and Ca can also be formed. These s-valence electrons of Ga and Ca are in the basic state of first ionization energy.
Thus, the maximum value of the energy parameter |hGa5| of the 3s, 3p-level electrons of Ga is proportional to the fifth ionization energy of Ga; the maximum value of energy parameter |hCa4| of the 3s, 3p-level electrons of Ca is proportional to the fourth ionization energy of Sr; and the energy parameters |hGa| and |hCa| of the s-valence electrons of Ga and Ca are proportional to the first ionization energies of Ga and Ca respectively.
Then, from the state of superconductivity h2=3 κ2, we have the following formula of Tc of Sr1-xCaxGa2:
where ΔCaSrGa=h=24|hGa5|+4|hCa4|+6|hGa|+|hCa| is the energy gap of superconductivity of Sr1-xCaxGa2 where the coefficients 4, 6, 24=4·6 are from the
for the eight 3s, 3p-level electrons of the Ga or Ca, and the 6 for the six Ga atoms of the hexagon of Ga. (For simplicity the effect of s-valence electrons of Sr and the effect of 3s, 3p-level electrons of Sr are omitted).
Then we have |hGa|≈ξ578.8 kJ/mol, |hGa5|=ξ8700 kJ/mol, |hCa|=ξ587.8 kJ/mol and |hCa|=ξ6491 kJ/mol; and 8700 kJ/mol is approximately the fifth ionization energy of Ga, and 578.8 kJ/mol, 587.8 kJ/mol are approximately the first ionization energies of Ga and Ca respectively. Then from (8) we can compute the highest critical temperature Tc of Sr1-xCaxGa2 which is upped to:
T
c≈463.9K (Computed Tc of Sr1-xCaxGa2) (9)
We may use other alkaline earth elements such as Ba (with fourth ionization energy≈4700 kJ/mol) to replace the alkaline earth element Sr (BaGa2 can also be formed in the AlB2-type phase). The highest critical temperature can also be upped to Tc≈463.9K.
From the property of the AlB2-type superconductor A1-x
Let us consider an intermetallic of the form Sr1-xCaxAlSi (0.1≦x≦0.9). Under the ambient pressure CaAlSi and SrAlSi can be formed in the AlB2-type as shown in “M. Imai, et al., Phys. Rev. Lett., 87, 077003 (2001)”. Thus Sr1-xCaxAlSi can be formed in the AlB2-type with Sr1-xCax corresponding to Al and AlSi corresponding to B2, with the unit cell as shown in
f(x)=4138(1−x)+4912.4x (10)
where 4138 kJ/mol and 4912.4 kJ/mole are approximately the third ionization energies of Sr and Ca respectively. This function gives the relation that the increasing of x gives the increasing of h. Then we set the following relation of the degenerate state of channel opening:
f(x0)=4138(1−x0)+4912.4x0=4355.5 (11)
for some x0 (0<x0<1) where 4355.5 kJ/mol is approximately the fourth ionization energy of Si. A main point is that 4138 is close to 4355.5. When this relation holds (or approximately holds), the channel connecting the state of third ionization energy of Sr and the state of fourth ionization energy of Si can be opened.
This channel opening gives a freedom of electric current with a direction orthogonal to the Si plane. From this freedom of electric current, the Cooper pairs of s, p-valence electrons of Si and Sr, the 2s, 2p-level electrons of Si and 4s, 4p-level electrons of Sr can be formed. Thus this channel opening gives the 3D region of conventional superconductivity. From this 3D conventional superconductivity we have the existence of quasi-2D bifurcation region of high-Tc superconductivity given by the Si plane.
We notice that x0≈0.28. Then Sr1-xCaxAlSi comes into the range of superconductivity when x0≦x≦x1 for some x1 such that x0<x1≦1.
When (11) holds (or approximately holds) giving channel opening, the s, p-valence electrons of Si in the Si plane are in the basic state of fourth ionization energy and the 4s, 4p-level electrons of Sr are in the basic state of third ionization energy, and that other states are to be reached from these two states. Further the s, p-valence and 2s, 2p-level electrons of Si in the Si plane and the 4s, 4p-level electrons of Sr are unified to occupy a sequence of states such that the 2s, 2p-level electrons of Si in the Si plane occupy the higher states while the 4s, 4p-level electrons of Sr occupy the lower states.
Thus, as MgB2, the s, p-valence electrons of Si are in the basic state of fourth ionization energy of Si, the 2s, 2p-level electrons of Si are in the state of fifth ionization energy of Si; and the 4s, 4p-level electrons of Sr are in the basic state of third ionization energy. The s, p-valence electrons of Si in the basic state of fourth ionization energy and the 4s, 4p-level electrons of Sr in the basic state of third ionization energy are in the opened channel of 3D superconductivity, while the 2s, 2p-level electrons of Si in the state of fifth ionization energy are for the quasi-2D high-Tc superconductivity of the Si plane.
Thus, the maximum value of the energy parameter |hSi| of the s, p-valence electrons of Si is proportional to the fourth ionization energy of Si, the maximum value of the energy parameter |hSi5| of the 2s, 2p-level electrons of Si is proportional to the fifth ionization energy of Si; and the energy parameter |hSr| of the 4s, 4p-level electrons of Sr is proportional to the third ionization energy of Sr. Then, we have the following formula of Tc of Sr1-xCaxAlSi:
where ΔSrCaAlSi=h=6|hSi|+12|hSi5|+4|hSr| is the energy gap of superconductivity of Sr1-xCaxAlSi where the coefficient 4 is from the
for the eight 4s, 4p-level electrons of Sr; and the coefficients 12=4·3, 6=2·3 are from the
for the eights 2s, 2p-level electrons of Si, the
for the 3s, 3p-level electrons of Si, and the 3 for the three Si atoms of the hexagon consisting of Si and Al. (For simplicity the effect of Al, the effect of s, p-valence electrons of Sr and Ca, and the effect of s, p-nonvalence electrons of Ca are omitted).
We have |hSi|≈ξ4355.5 kJ/mol, |hSi5≈ξ16091 kJ/mol and |hSr|≈ξ4138 kJ/mol where 16091 kJ/mol is approximately the fifth ionization energy of Si. Then from (12) we can compute the highest critical temperature Tc of Sr1-xCaxAlSi which is upped to:
T
c≈463.59K (Computed Tc of Sr1-xCaxAlSi) (13)
For this AlB2-type superconductor, we may use other alkaline earth elements such as Mg (with third ionization energy≈7732 kJ/mol) and Ba (with fourth ionization energy≈4700 kJ/mol) to replace Ca (with third ionization energy≈4912.4 kJ/mol).
It is known that under high pressure of about 16 GPa the intermetallics CaSi2 and SrSi2 are also of the AlB2-type. Then similar to Sr1-xCaxAlSi, the intermetallics Sr1-xCaxSi2 (0.1≦x≦0.9) is also a superconductor with the critical temperature Tc>300K for some doping value xc of x, 0.1≦xc≦9.
Since the first ionization energies of Ca and Sr are ≈589.7 kJ/mol and ≈549.5 kJ/mol which are close to the first ionization energies≈1577.5 kJ/mol of Al, there is a channel opening at first ionization energy states. This gives the superconductivity of CaAlSi and SrAlSi. For this superconductivity due to the channel opening of first ionization energy states, the computed Tc roughly agree with the experimental values≈7.8 kJ/mol and ≈5.1 kJ/mol of CaAlSi and SrAlSi.
From the property of the AlB2-type superconductor Sr1-x
Since the AlB2-type intermetallics Sr1-xAxAlSi (0≦x≦1) are of the hexagonal crystal structure and contain the element Si, they are suitable as substrates for depositing thin films of superconductors of the hexagonal crystal structure.
Let us consider an intermetallic La1-xBaxCuGe (0≦x≦1). Under ambient pressure LaCuGe and BaCuGe can be formed in the AlB2-type, as shown in “C. Zheng and R. Hoffmann, Inorg. Chem., 28, 1074 (1989)”. Thus La1-xBaxCuGe can be formed in the AlB2-type with La1-xBax corresponding to Al and CuGe corresponding to B2, with the unit cell as shown in
f(x)=1850(1−x)+3600x (14)
where 3600 kJ/mol and 1850 kJ/mole are approximately the third ionization energy of Ba and La respectively. This function gives the relation that the increasing of x gives the increasing of h. Then we set the following relation of the degenerate state of channel opening:
f(x0)=1850(1−x0)+3600x0=1957.9 (15)
for some x0 (0≦x0≦1) where 1957.9 kJ/mol is approximately the second ionization energy of Cu. When this relation holds (or approximately holds), the channel connecting the state of third ionization energy of La and the state of second ionization energy of Cu can be opened. This channel opening gives a freedom of electric current with a direction orthogonal to the Cu plane. From this freedom of electric current, the Cooper pairs of the 3d-level electrons of Cu can be formed. Thus this channel opening gives the 3D region of conventional superconductivity. From this 3D conventional superconductivity we have the existence of quasi-2D bifurcation region of high-Tc superconductivity given by the Cu plane. We notice that x0≈0.062. Then La1-xBaxCuGe comes into the range of superconductivity when x0≦x≦x1 for some x1 such that x0<x1≦1.
When (15) holds (or approximately holds) giving channel opening, the 3d-level electrons of Cu in the Cu plane are in the basic state of second ionization energy and the 5d-level electron of La is in the basic state of third ionization energy, and that other states are to be reached from these two states. Further the 3d-level electrons of Cu in the Cu plane and the 5d-level electron of La are unified to occupy a sequence of states such that the 3d-level electrons of Cu in the Cu plane occupy the higher states while the 5d-level and s-valence electrons of La occupy the lower states. Thus, the 3d-level electrons of Cu are in the state of third ionization energy of Cu; 5d-level electrons of La in the basic state of third ionization energy of La, and the s-valence electrons of La are in the basic state of first (or second) ionization energy. We notice that the 5d-level electrons of La in the basic state of third ionization energy are in the opened channel of 3D superconductivity, while the 3d-level electrons of Cu in the state of third ionization energy are for the quasi-2D high-Tc superconductivity of the Cu plane. Thus, the maximum value of the energy parameter |hCu3| of the 3d-level electrons of Cu is proportional to the third ionization energy of Cu; and the energy parameter |hLa| of the s-valence electrons of La is proportional to the first (or second) ionization energy of La (There is no Cooper pair of 5d-level electrons of La since there is only one 5d-level electron of La).
Then let us consider the Ge plane in the same CuGe plane consisting of the Ge atoms of the CuGe plane. For the doping mechanism of superconductivity let us consider the following function:
g(x)=4410−4819(1−x) (16)
where 4410 kJ/mol and 4819 kJ/mole are approximately the fourth ionization energy of Ge and La respectively. This function gives the relation that the increasing of x gives the increasing of h. Then we set the following relation of the degenerate state of channel opening:
g(x′0)=4410−4819(1−x′0)=3600x′0 (17)
for some x′0 (0<x′0<1) where 3600 kJ/mol is approximately the third ionization energy of Ba. When this relation holds (or approximately holds), the channel connecting the state of fourth ionization energy of La and the state of fourth ionization energy of Ge can be opened. This channel opening gives a freedom of electric current with a direction orthogonal to the Ge plane. From this freedom of electric current, the Cooper pairs of the 3s, 3p-level electrons of Ge, the 4s, 4p-level electrons of Ge and 5s, 5p-level electrons of La can be formed. Thus this channel opening gives the 3D region of conventional superconductivity. From this 3D conventional superconductivity we have the existence of quasi-2D bifurcation region of high-Tc superconductivity given by the Ge plane. We notice that x′0≈0.335. Then La1-xBaxCuGe comes into the range of superconductivity when x′0≦x≦x1 for some x1 such that x═0<x1≦1.
Thus for both the Cu and Ge atoms, when x′0≈0.335, La1-xBaxCuGe comes into the range of superconductivity when x′0≦x≦x1 for some x1 such that x′0<x1≦1.
When (17) holds (or approximately holds) giving channel opening, the 4s, 4p-level electrons of Ge in the Ge plane are in the basic state of fourth ionization energy and the 5s, 5p-level electrons of La are in the basic state of fourth ionization energy, and that other states are to be reached from these two states. Further the 4s, 4p-level and 3s, 3p-level electrons of Ge in the Ge plane and the 5s, 5p-level electrons of La are unified to occupy a sequence of states such that the 3s, 3p-level electrons of Ge in the Ge plane occupy the higher states while the 5s, 5p-level and 6s-level electrons of La occupy the lower states. Thus, the 4s, 4p-level electrons of Ge are in the basic state of fourth ionization energy of Ge, the 3s, 3p-level electrons of Ge are in the state of fifth ionization energy of Ge; and the 5s, 5p-level electrons of La are in the basic state of fourth ionization energy.
We notice that the 4s, 4p-level electrons of Ge in the basic state of fourth ionization energy are in the opened channel of 3D superconductivity, while the 3s, 3p-level electrons of Ge in the state of fifth ionization energy are for the quasi-2D high-Tc superconductivity of the Ge plane. Thus, the maximum value of the energy parameter |hGe| of the 4s, 4p-level electrons of Ge is proportional to the fourth ionization energy of Ge, the maximum value of the energy parameter |hGe5| of the 3s, 3p-level electrons of Ge is proportional to the fifth ionization energy of Ge; and the energy parameter |hLa4| of the 5s, 5p-level electrons of La is proportional to the fourth ionization energy of La. Then, we have the following formula of Tc of La1-xBaxCuGe:
where ΔLaBaCuGe=h=(4|hLa4|+12|hGe5|+6|hGe|)+(15|hCu3|+|hLa|) is the energy gap of superconductivity of La1-xBaxCuGe where the coefficient 4 is from the
for the eight 5s, 5p-level electrons of La; and the coefficients 12=4·3, 6=2·3 and 15=5·3 are from the
for the eight, 3s, 3p-level electrons of Ge, the
for the 4s, 4p-level electrons of Ge, the
for the ten 3d-level electrons of Cu, and the 3 for the three Ge atoms and three Cu atoms of the hexagon consisting of Ge and Cu.
We have |hGe|≈ξ4410 kJ/mol, |hGe5|≈ξ9020 kJ/mol and |hLa4|≈ξ4819 kJ/mol, |hCu3≈ξ3555 kJ/mol, |hLa|≈ξ1067 kJ/mol, where 9020 kJ/mol is approximately the fifth ionization energy of Ge and 1067 kJ/mol is approximately the second ionization energy of La. Then from (18) we can compute the highest critical temperature Tc which is upped to:
T
c≈409.70K (Computed Tc of La1-xBaxCuGe) (19)
For this AlB2-type superconductor, we may use other alkaline earth elements such as Sr (with third ionization energy≈4210 kJ/mol) and Ca (with second ionization energy≈1145 kJ/mol and third ionization energy≈4910 kJ/mol) to replace Ba (with third ionization energy≈3600 kJ/mol). Also we may use Si (with fourth ionization energy≈4355.5 kJ/mol) to replace Ge (with fourth ionization energy≈4410 kJ/mol). Since the fourth ionization energy of Si is not as close to that of La as the fourth ionization energy of Ge, it may be more difficult to have the channel opening for this Si-substitution. We may also synthesize AlB2-type intermetallic of the form La(1-x)(1-y)CeyBaxCuGe (0≦y≦1) or Mm1-xBaxCuGe where Mm denotes the Mischmetal. Also we may use other mixtures of rare earth elements to replace La.
Let us consider an intermetallic Gd1-xCaxCuSi (0≦x≦1). Under ambient pressure GdCuSi and CaCuSi can be formed in the AlB2-type. Thus Gd1-xCaxCuSi can be formed in the AlB2-type with Gd1-xCax corresponding to Al and CuSi corresponding to B2, with the unit cell as shown in
Let us first consider the Cu plane in a CuSi plane consisting of the Cu atoms of the CuSi plane, then we consider the Si plane in the same CuSi plane consisting of the Si atoms of the CuSi plane. For the doping mechanism of superconductivity let us consider the following function:
f(x)=1957.9−1990(1−x) (20)
where 1957.9 kJ/mol and 1990 kJ/mole are approximately the second ionization energy of Cu and the third ionization energy of Gd respectively. This function gives the relation that the increasing of x gives the increasing of h. Then we set the following relation of the degenerate state of channel opening:
f(x0)=1957.9−1990(1−x0)=1145x0 (21)
for some x0 (0<x0<1) where 1145 kJ/mol is approximately the second ionization energy of Ca. When this relation holds (or approximately holds), the channel connecting the state of third ionization energy of Gd and the state of second ionization energy of Cu can be opened. This channel opening gives a freedom of electric current with a direction orthogonal to the Cu plane. From this freedom of electric current, the Cooper pairs of the 3d-level electrons of Cu can be formed. Thus this channel opening gives the 3D region of conventional superconductivity. From this 3D conventional superconductivity we have the existence of quasi-2D bifurcation region of high-Tc superconductivity given by the Cu plane. We notice that x0≈0.038. Then Gd1-xCaxCuSi comes into the range of superconductivity when x0≦x≦x1 for some x1 such that x0<x1≦1.
When (21) holds (or approximately holds) giving channel opening, the 3d-level electrons of Cu in the Cu plane are in the basic state of second ionization energy and the 5d-level electrons of Gd are in the basic state of third ionization energy, and that other states are to be reached from these two states. Further the 3d-level electrons of Cu in the Cu plane and the 5d-level electrons of Gd are unified to occupy a sequence of states such that the 3d-level electrons of Cu in the Cu plane occupy the higher states while the 5d-level electrons of Gd occupy the lower states. Thus, the 3d-level electrons of Cu are in the state of third ionization energy of Cu; the 5d-level electrons of Gd in the basic state of third ionization energy of Gd, and the s-valence electrons of Gd are in the basic state of first (or second) ionization energy.
We notice that the 5d-level electrons of Gd in the basic state of third ionization energy are in the opened channel of 3D superconductivity, while the 3d-level electrons of Cu in the state of third ionization energy are for the quasi-2D high-Tc superconductivity of the Cu plane. Thus, the maximum value of the energy parameter |hcu3| of the 3d-level electrons of Cu is proportional to the third ionization energy of Cu; and the energy parameter |hGd| of the s-valence electrons of Gd is proportional to the first (or second) ionization energy of Gd (There is no Cooper pair of 5d-level electrons of Gd since there is only one 5d-level electron of Gd).
Then let us consider the Si plane in the same CuSi plane consisting of the Si atoms of the CuSi plane. For the doping mechanism of superconductivity let us consider the following function:
g(x)=4250(1−x)+4910x (22)
where 4250 kJ/mol and 4910 kJ/mole are approximately the fourth ionization energy of Gd and the third ionization energy of Ca respectively. This function gives the relation that the increasing of x gives the increasing of h. Then we set the following relation of the degenerate state of channel opening:
g(x′0)=4250(1−x═0)+4910x′0=4355.5 (23)
for some x′0 (0<x′0<1) where 4355.5 kJ/mol is approximately the fourth ionization energy of Si. When this relation holds (or approximately holds), the channel connecting the state of fourth ionization energy of Gd and the state of fourth ionization energy of Si can be opened. This channel opening gives a freedom of electric current with a direction orthogonal to the Si plane. From this freedom of electric current, the Cooper pairs of the 2s, 2p-level electrons of Si and 5s, 5p-level electrons of Gd can be formed. Thus this channel opening gives the 3D region of conventional superconductivity. From this 3D conventional superconductivity we have the existence of quasi-2D bifurcation region of high-Tc superconductivity given by the Si plane. We notice that x′0≈0.16. Then Gd1-xCaxCuSi comes into the range of superconductivity when x′0≦x≦x1 for some x1 such that x′0<x1≦1.
Thus for both the Cu and Si atoms, when x′0≈0.16, Gd1-xCaxCuSi comes into the range of superconductivity when x′0≦x≦x1 for some x1 such that x′0<x1≦1.
When (23) holds (or approximately holds) giving channel opening, the 3s, 3p-level electrons of Si in the Si plane are in the basic state of fourth ionization energy and the 5s, 5p-level electrons of Gd are in the basic state of fourth ionization energy, and that other states are to be reached from these two states. Further the 3s, 3p-level and 2s, 2p-level electrons of Si in the Si plane and the 5s, 5p-level electrons of Gd are unified to occupy a sequence of states such that the 2s, 2p-level electrons of Si in the Si plane occupy the higher states while the 5s, 5p-level and 6s-level electrons of Gd occupy the lower states. Thus, the 3s, 3p-level electrons of Si are in the basic state of fourth ionization energy of Si, the 2s, 2p-level electrons of Si are in the state of fifth ionization energy of Si; and the 5s, 5p-level electrons of Gd are in the basic state of fourth ionization energy.
We notice that the 3s, 3p-level electrons of Si in the basic state of fourth ionization energy are in the opened channel of 3D superconductivity, while the 2s, 2p-level electrons of Si in the state of fifth ionization energy are for the quasi-2D high-Tc superconductivity of the Si plane. Thus, the maximum value of the energy parameter |hSi| of the 3s, 3p-level electrons of Si is proportional to the fourth ionization energy of Si, the maximum value of the energy parameter |hSi5| of the 2s, 2p-level electrons of Si is proportional to the fifth ionization energy of Si; the energy parameter |hGd| of the 5s, 5p-level electrons of Gd is proportional to the fourth ionization energy of Gd, and the energy parameter |hGd| of the s-valence electrons of Gd is proportional to the first (or second) ionization energy of Gd. Then, we have the following formula of Tc of Gd1-xCaxCuSi:
where ΔGdCaCuSi=h=(4|hGd4|+12|hSi5|+6|hSi|)+(15|hCu3|+|hGd|) is the energy gap of superconductivity of Gd1-xCaxCuSi where the coefficient 4 is from the
for the eight 5s, 5p-level electrons of Gd; and the coefficients 12=4·3, 6=2·3 and 15=5·3 are from the
for the eight 2s, 2p-level electrons of Si, the
for the 3s, 3p-level electrons of Si, the
for the ten 3d-level electrons of Cu, and the 3 for the three Si atoms and three Cu atoms of the hexagon consisting of Si and Cu.
We have |hSi″≈ξ4355.51 kJ/mol, |hSi5|≈ξ16091 kJ/mol and |hGd4|≈ξ4250 kJ/mol, |hCu3|≈ξ3555 kJ/mol, |hGd|≈ξ1167 kJ/mol where 16091 kJ/mol is approximately the fifth ionization energy of Si and 1167 kJ/mol is approximately the second ionization energy of Gd. Then from (24) we can compute the highest critical temperature Tc which is upped to:
T
c≈571.62K (Computed of Gd1-xCaxCuSi) (25)
For this AlB2-type superconductor, we may use other alkaline earth elements such as Sr and Ba to replace Ca. Also we may use Ge to replace Si. We may further use rare earth elements and the mixture thereof to replace Gd. A main point for these generalizations is the forming of the degenerate state of channel opening for the superconductivity in these generalizations.
From the property of the AlB2-type superconductor R1-x
Let us consider an intermetallic La1-xCaxCu5 (0≦x≦1). We have that the intermetallics LaCu5 and CaCu5 are of the CaCu5-type as shown in “D. J. Chakrabari and D. E. Laughlin, Bull. Alloy Phase Diagram, 2, 319 (1981)” and “P. R. Subramanian and D. E. Laughlin, Bull. Alloy Phase Diagram, 9, 316 (1988)”. Thus the crystal structure of La1-xCaxCu5 can be formed in the CaCu5-type with La1-xCax corresponding to Ca.
This CaCu5-type is similar to the AlB2-type with the hexagon of six B atoms replaced by an enlarged hexagon of twelve Cu atoms and a hexagon of six Cu atoms is intercalated in one of the two Ca planes which replaces the corresponding one of the two Al planes of AlB2. There are eighteen Cu atoms near the faces of a unit cell of the hexagonal structure of CaCu5 (where twelve Cu atoms are from the two hexagons of six Cu atoms intercalated in the two Ca planes and six Cu atoms are from the enlarged hexagon of Cu).
f(x)=1850(1−x)+4912.4x (26)
where 1850 kJ/mol and 4912.4 kJ/mole are approximately the third ionization energies of La and Ca respectively. This function gives the relation that the increasing of x gives the increasing of h. Then we set the following relation of the degenerate state of channel opening:
f(x0)=1850(1−x0)+4912.4x0=1957.9 (27)
for some x0 (0<x0<1) where 1957.9 kJ/mol is approximately the second ionization energy of Cu. When this relation holds (or approximately holds), the channel connecting the state of third ionization energy of La and the state of second ionization energy of Cu can be opened. This channel opening gives a freedom of electric current with a direction orthogonal to the Cu plane. By this freedom of electric current, the valence electrons of a cluster of atoms in a unit cell can be coupled to the valence electrons of other clusters to form Cooper pairs. In this way the Cooper pairs of d-valence electrons of Cu and the Cooper pair of the s-valence electrons of La can be formed (In other words, through this channel opening the d-valence electrons of Cu can transit from the valence band to the conduction band from which Cooper pairs of these d-valence electrons can be formed by the attractive electron-electron interaction from the seagull vertex term). Thus this channel opening together with the Cu plane gives the region of 3D conventional superconductivity. From this region of 3D superconductivity we have the existence of quasi-2D bifurcation region of the high-Tc superconductivity given by the Cu plane. We notice that x0≈0.035. Then La1-xCaxCu5 comes into the range of superconductivity when x0<x<x1 for some x1 such that x0<x1<1. When (27) holds (or approximately holds) giving channel opening, the d-valence electrons of Cu in the Cu plane are in the basic state of second ionization energy and the d-valence electron of La is in the basic state of third ionization energy, and that other states are to be reached from these two states. Further the d-valence electrons of Cu in the Cu plane and the d-valence electron of La are unified to occupy a sequence of states such that the d-valence electron of Cu in the Cu plane occupy the higher states while the d-valence electron of La occupy the lower state: Thus, as MgB2, the d-valence electrons of Cu are in the basic state of third ionization energy, the d-valence electron of La is in the state of third ionization energy; and the s-valence electrons of La is in the basic state of first ionization energy.
Thus, the maximum value of the energy parameter |hCu| of the d-valence electrons of Cu is proportional to the third ionization energy of Cu, and the energy parameter |hLa| of the s-valence electrons of La is proportional to the first ionization energy of La. Then, from the state of superconductivity h2=3 κ2, if we omit the effect of the hexagon of six Cu atoms intercalated in the La plane, we have the following formula of Tc of La1-xCaxCu5:
where ΔLaCaCu=h=45|hCu|+|hLa| is the energy gap of the superconductivity of La1-xCaxCu5 where the coefficient 45=5·9 are from the
for the ten d-valence electrons of the Cu, and the 9 for the nine Cu atoms in the enlarged hexagon of Cu. (For simplicity the effect of s, d-valence electrons of Ca is omitted). We have |hCu|≈ξ3555 kJ/mol, and |hLa|≈ξ538.1 kJ/mol where 3555 kJ/mol is approximately the third ionization energy of Cu and 538.1 kJ/mol is approximately the first ionization energy of La. Then from (28) we can compute the highest critical temperature Tc of La1-xCaxCu5 which is upped to:
T
c≈315.6K (Computed Tc of La1-xCaxCu5) (29)
If we include the effect of the hexagon of six Cu atoms intercalated in the La plane and suppose that this effect is the same as the enlarged hexagon of twelve Cu atoms. Then the term 45|hCu| in ΔLaCaCu becomes 75|hCu|. Then the highest critical temperature Tc of La1-xCaxCu5 is upped to:
T
c≈525.3K (Computed Tc of La1-xCaxCu5) (30)
We may use other alkaline earth elements such as Sr (with the third ionization energy≈4138 kJ/mol) to replace Ca to form the intermetallic La1-xSrxCu5 (SrCu5 is also of the CaCu5-type). The doping mechanism is similar to La1-xCaxCu5 with x0≈0.047. The highest critical temperature can be upped to Tc≈525.3K. We have that La1-xSrxCu5 is easier to be synthesized than La1-xCaxCu5 since 4138<4912.4. Further, we may use a mixture of Ca and Sr, denoted by A, to replace Ca to form the intermetallic La1-xAxCu5 (0≦x≦1). Also we may use a mixture of Cu and Zn to replace Cu to form the intermetallic La1-xAxCu5(1−y)Zn5y (0≦y≦1). Also we may use rare earth elements R (or mixture thereof) with the third ionization energy>1957.9 kJ/mol to replace Ca to form the intermetallic La1-xRxCu5.
Let us use other rare earth elements such as Gd to replace the element La to form the intermetallic GdxCa1-xCu5 (0≦x≦1) (GdCu5 is also of the CaCu5-type). For the doping mechanism let us consider the following function:
f(x)=1957.9−1145.4(1−x) (31)
where 1957.9 kJ/mol and 1145.4 kJ/mole are approximately the second ionization energies of Cu and Ca respectively. This function gives the relation that the increasing of x gives the increasing of h. Then we set the following relation of the degenerate state of channel opening:
f(x0)=1957.9−1145.4(1−x0)=1990x0 (32)
for some x0 (0<x0<1) where 1990 kJ/mol is approximately the third ionization energy of Gd. Then we have x0≈0.96. Then GdxCa1-xCu5 comes into the range of superconductivity when x2≦x≦x0 for some x2 such that 0≦x2<x0<1. Then, as La1-xCaxCu5, we have the following formula of Tc of GdxCa1-xCu5:
where ΔGdCaCu=h=75|hCu|+|hGd| is the energy gap of the superconductivity of GdxCa1-xCu5, |hCu|≈ξ3555 kJ/mol, and |hGd|≈ξ592.5 kJ/mol where 592.5 kJ/mol is approximately the first ionization energy of Gd. Then from (33) we can compute the highest critical temperature Tc of GdxCa1-xCu5 which is upped to:
T
c≈525.4K (Computed Tc of GdxCa1-xCu5) (34)
We may use other alkaline earth elements such as Sr (with the second ionization energy≈1064.2 kJ/mol) to replace Ca to form the intermetallic GdxSr1-xCu5 (0≦x≦1). The doping mechanism is similar to GdxCa1-xCu5 with x0≈0.96. The highest critical temperature is upped to Tc≈525.4K.
We may also use other rare earth elements such as Y to replace the element La to form the intermetallic YxCa1-xCu5 (0≦x≦1) (YCu5 is also of the CaCu5-type). For the doping mechanism we consider the following function:
f(x)=1957.9−1145.4(1−x) (35)
where 1957.9 kJ/mol and 1145.4 kJ/mole are approximately the second ionization energies of Cu and Ca respectively. This function gives the relation that the increasing of x gives the increasing of h. Then we set the following relation of the degenerate state of channel opening:
f(x0)=1957.9−1145.4(1−x0)=1980x0 (36)
for some x0 (0<x0<1) where 1980 kJ/mol is approximately the third ionization energy of Y. Then we have x0≈0.96. Then YxCa1-xCu5 comes into the range of superconductivity when x2≦x’x0 for some x2 such that 0≦x2≦x0<1. Then, similar to La1-xCaxCu5, we have the following formula of Tc of YxCa1-xCu5:
where ΔYCaCu=h=75|hCu|+|hY| is the energy gap of the superconductivity of YxCa1-xCu5, |hCu|≈ξ3555 kJ/mol, and |hy|≈ξ600 kJ/mol where 600 kJ/mol is approximately the first ionization energy of Y. Then from (37) we can compute the highest critical temperature Tc of YxCa1-xCu5 which is upped to:
T
c≈525.43K (Computed Tc of YxCa1-xCu5) (38)
We may use other alkaline earth elements such as Sr to replace Ca to form the intermetallic YxSr1-xCu5 (0≦x≦1). The doping mechanism is similar to YxCa1-xCu5 with x0≈0.96. The highest critical temperature is upped to Tc≈525.43K.
Let us consider an intermetallic LaNi5(1-x)Cu5x (0≦x≦1). We have that the intermetallics LaCu5 and LaNi5 are of the CaCu5-type. Thus LaNi5(1-x)Cu5x can be formed in the CaCu5-type with Ca corresponding to La and Cu corresponding to Ni(1-x)Cux. For the doping mechanism of superconductivity let us consider the following function:
f(x)=1753(1−x)+1957.9x (39)
where 1753 kJ/mol and 1957.9 kJ/mole are approximately the second ionization energies of Ni and Cu respectively. This function gives the relation that the increasing of x gives the increasing of h. Then we set the following relation of the degenerate state of channel opening:
f(x0)=1753(1−x0)+1957.9x0=1850 (40)
for some x0 (0<x0<1) where 1850 kJ/mol is approximately the third ionization energy of La. When this relation holds (or approximately holds), the channel connecting the state of third ionization energy of La and the state of second ionization energy of Ni(Cu) can be opened. In this case of channel opening the Cooper pairs of d-valence electrons of Ni(Cu), the Cooper pairs of s-valence electrons of La, and the bifurcation region of high-Tc superconductivity can be formed. We notice that x0≈0.4734. Then LaNi5(1-x)Cu5x comes into the range of superconductivity when x0≦x≦x1 for some x1 such that x0<x1<1.
For this intermetallic LaNi5(1-x)Cu5x we have another doping mechanism of superconductivity. Let us consider the following function:
g(x)=1753(1−x)+3555x (41)
where 3555 kJ/mole is approximately the third ionization energy of Cu. This function also gives the relation that the increasing of x gives the increasing of h. Then we set the following relation of the degenerate state of channel opening:
g(x′0)=1753(1−x′0)+3555x′0=1850 (42)
for some x′0 (0<x′0<1) where 1850 kJ/mol is again approximately the third ionization energy of La (The ionization energy of Cu can be the second or the third ionization energies). When this relation holds (or approximately holds) we also have that the channel connecting the state of third ionization energy of La and the state of second ionization energy of Ni(Cu) can be opened. Then we have x′0≈0.0538. Then LaNi5(1-x)Cu5x comes into the range of superconductivity when x′0≦x≦x1 for some x1 such that x′0<x1≦1. We notice that x′0 is more close to 0 than x0. Since x′0≈0, we have that LaNi5 can be formed in the degenerate state of channel opening. Thus LaNi5 can be formed as a superconductor. When (40) holds (or when (42) holds) giving channel opening, the d-valence electrons of Ni in the Ni(Cu) plane are in the basic state of second ionization energy and the d-valence electrons of La are in the basic state of third ionization energy, and that other states are to be reached from these two states. Further the d-valence electrons of Ni in the Ni(Cu) plane and the d-valence electron of La are unified to occupy a sequence of states such that the d-valence electrons of Ni in the Ni(Cu) plane occupy the higher states while the d-valence electron of La occupies the lower state. Thus, as MgB2, the d-valence electrons of Ni are in the state of third ionization energy, the d-valence electron of La is in the state of third ionization energy; and the s-valence electrons of Ni are in the state of first ionization energy, the s-valence electrons of La are in the state of first ionization energy. Thus, the maximum value of the energy parameter |hNi| of the d-valence electrons of Ni is proportional to the third ionization energy≈3395 kJ/mol of Ni, the energy parameter |hNi1| of the s-valence electrons of Ni is proportional to the first ionization energy≈737.1 kJ/mol of Ni, and the energy parameter |hLa| of the s-valence electrons of La is proportional to the first ionization energy of La. Then, as La1-xCaxCu5, we have the following formula of Tc of LaNi5(1-x)Cu5x:
where ΔLaNiCu=h=60|hNi|+15|hNi1|+|hLa| is the energy gap of LaNi5(1-x)Cu5x and 60=4·15 where
is from the 8 d-valence electrons of Ni, and the 15 for the fifteen Ni(Cu) atoms of the cluster of Ni(Cu) atoms in a unit cell (For simplicity the effect of d-valence electrons of Cu is omitted). Then from (43) we can compute the critical temperature Tc of LaNi5(1-x)Cu5x which is upped to:
T
c≈423.321K (Computed Tc of LaNi5(1-x)Cu5x) (44)
We may use other transition elements such as Co to replace Ni or Cu of LaNi5(1-x)Cu5x.
Since x′0≈0, we have that LaNi5 can be formed in the degenerate state of channel opening and thus LaNi5 can be formed as a superconductor with Tc upped to 423.321K. This intermetallic LaNi5 had been used for hydrogen storage since LaNi5 is easy to be activated and can store a large amount of hydrogen under ambient pressure and in the room temperature. Since the activation and the hydrogen storage of a material is from the activity of electrons of this material, this property of LaNi5 shows that the d-valence electrons of Ni and La in LaNi5 is in the degenerate state of channel opening.
Let us consider an intermetallic La1-xCexNi5(1-c)Cu5c (0≦x, c≦1). This intermetallic can also be of the CaCu5-type. For the doping mechanism let us consider the following function:
f(x)=1850(1−x)+1949x (45)
where 1850 kJ/mol and 1949 kJ/mole are approximately the third ionization energies of La and Ce respectively. This function gives the relation that the increasing of x gives the increasing of h. Then we set the following relation of the degenerate state of channel opening:
f(x0)=1850(1−x0)+1949x0=1753(1−c)+1957.9c (46)
for some x0 (0<x0<1) and some c>0. When this relation holds (or approximately holds), the channel connecting the state of third ionization energy of La(Ce) and the state of second ionization energy of Cu(Ni) can be opened. In this case of channel opening the Cooper pairs of d-valence electrons of Cu(Ni) and the bifurcation region of high-Tc superconductivity can be formed. When
this intermetallic La1-xCexNi5(1-x)Cu5c is similar to LaNi5(1-x)Cu5x with Ni as the main part and we omit the details. When
then Cu is as the main part. Thus, as La1-xCaxCu5, when c is close to 1 we have the following formula (with approximation) of Tx of La1-xCexNi5(1-c)Cu5c:
where ΔLaCeNiCu=h=75|hCu|+|hLa| is the energy gap of La1-xCexNi5(1-c)Cu5c. (For simplicity the effect of s, d, f-valence electrons of Ni and Ce is omitted). Then from (47) we can compute the critical temperature Tc of La1-xCexNi5(1-c)Cu5c which is upped to:
T
c≈525.3K (Computed Tc of La1-xCexNi5(1-c)Cu5c) (48)
We may replace Ce with a mixture of rare earth elements. When
this family of CaCu5-type superconductors includes the intermetallic MmNi5(1-c)Cu5c where Mm denotes a Mischmetal which is a mixture of rare earth elements with the fractional part of Ce more than ⅖. In particular we have the intermetallic MmNi5. Then as LaNi5 we have that MmNi5 is a superconductor with Tc>300K.
Let us consider an intermetallic YNi5(1-x)Cu5x (0≦x≦1). We have that the intermetallics YCu5 and YNi5 are of the CaCu5-type. Thus YNi5(1-x)Cu5x can be formed in the CaCu5-type with Ca corresponding to Y and Cu corresponding to Ni(1-x)Cux. For the doping mechanism of superconductivity let us consider the following function:
f(x)=1980−3393(1−x) (49)
where 1980 kJ/mol and 3393 kJ/mole are approximately the third ionization energies of Y and Ni respectively. This function gives the relation that the increasing of x gives the increasing of h. Then we set the following relation of the degenerate state of channel opening:
f(x0)=1980−3393(1−x0)=1957.9x0 (50)
for some x0 (0<x0<1) where 1957.9 kJ/mol is approximately the second ionization energy of Cu. When this relation holds (or approximately holds), the channel connecting the state of third ionization energy of Y and the state of second ionization energy of Cu can be opened. In this case of channel opening the Cooper pairs of d-valence electrons of Cu, the Cooper pairs of s-valence electrons of Y, and the bifurcation region of high-Tc superconductivity can be formed. We notice that x0≈0.9846. Then YNi5(1-x)Cu5x comes into the range of superconductivity when x2≦x≦x0 for some x2 such that 0<x2<x0<1. When (50) holds (or approximately holds) giving channel opening, the d-valence electrons of Cu in the Cu plane are in the basic state of second ionization energy and the d-valence electrons of Y are in the basic state of third ionization energy, and that other states are to be reached from these two states. Further the d-valence electrons of Cu in the Cu plane and the d-valence electron of Y are unified to occupy a sequence of states such that the d-valence electron of Cu in the Cu plane occupy the higher states while the d valence electron of Y occupies the lower state.
Thus, as MgB2, the d-valence electrons of Cu are in the state of third ionization energy, the d-valence electron of Y is in the state of third ionization energy; and the s-valence electrons of Cu are in the state of first ionization energy, the s-valence electrons of Y is in the state of first ionization energy. Thus, the maximum value of the energy parameter |hCu| of the d-valence electrons of Cu is proportional to the third ionization energy of Cu, and the energy parameter |hY| of the s-valence electrons of Y is proportional to the first ionization energy of Y. Then, as La1-xCaxCu5, we have the following formula of Tc of YNi5(1-x)Cu5x:
where ΔYNiCu=h=75|hCu|+|hY| is the energy gap of the superconductivity of YNi5(1-x)Cu5x (The effect of s, d-valence electrons of Ni is omitted). Then from (51) we can compute the highest critical temperature Tc of YNi5(1-x)Cu5x which is upped to:
T
c≈525.43K (Computed Tc of YNi5(1-x)Cu5x) (52)
We may use other transition elements such as Co to replace the element Ni. In this case we have the intermetallic YCo5(1-x)Cu5x with x0≈0.9. The critical temperature can be upped to Tc≈525.43K.
Let us then consider the case of Ni as the main part (instead of the above case of Cu as the main part) for YNi5(1-x)Cu5x. To this end let us write this intermetallic in the form YNi5yCu5(1-y) (0≦y≦1). Then let us consider the following function for doping mechanism:
g(y)=1980−3555(1−y) (53)
where 1980 kJ/mol and 3555 kJ/mole are approximately the third ionization energies of Y and Cu respectively. This function gives the relation that the increasing of y gives the increasing of h. Then we set the following relation of the degenerate state of channel opening:
g(y0)=1980−3555(1−y0)=1753y
for some y0 (0<y0<1) where 1753 kJ/mol is approximately the second ionizationy energy of Ni. When this relation holds (or approximately holds), the channel connecting the state of third ionization energy of Y and the state of second ionization energy of Ni (for the high-Tc superconductivity given by the Ni(Cu) plane) can be opened. Then, the rest is similar to LaNi5(1-x)Cu5x (0≦x≦1) with La replaced by Y and x replaced by y. Thus we have the the following formula of Tc of YNi5yCu5(1-y):
where ΔYNiCu=h=60|hNi|+15|hNi1|+|hY| is the energy gap of superconductivity of YNi5yCu5(1-y) (when Ni instead of Cu is the main part). Then from (55) we can compute the critical temperature Tc of YNi5yCu5(1-y) which is upped to:
T
c≈423.21K (Computed Tc of YNi5yCu5(1-y)) (56)
Let us consider an intermetallic YNi5(1-x)Co5x (0≦x≦1). We have that the intermetallics YCo5 and YNi5 are also of the CaCu5-type. Thus YNi5(1-x)Co5x can be formed in the CaCu5-type with Ca corresponding to Y and Cu corresponding to Ni5(1-x)Co5x. Then let us consider the following function for doping mechanism:
f(x)=1980−3232(1−x) (57)
where 1980 kJ/mol and 3232 kJ/mole are approximately the third ionization energies of Y and Co respectively. This function gives the relation that the increasing of x gives the increasing of h. Then we set the following relation of the degenerate state of channel opening:
f(x0)=1980−3232(1−x0)=1753x0 (58)
for some x0 (0<x0<1) where 1753 kJ/mol is approximately the second ionization energy of Ni. When this relation holds (or approximately holds), the channel connecting the state of third ionization energy of Y and the state of second ionization energy of Ni can be opened. In this case of channel opening the Cooper pairs of s, d-valence electrons of Ni, the Cooper pairs of s valence electrons of Y, and the bifurcation region of high-Tc superconductivity can be formed. When (58) holds (or approximately holds) giving channel opening, the d-valence electrons of Ni in the Ni(Co) plane are in the basic state of second ionization energy of Ni and the d valence electrons of Y are in the basic state of third ionization energy of Y, and that other states are to be reached from these two states. Further the d-valence electrons of Ni in the Ni(Co) plane and the d valence electron of Y are unified to occupy a sequence of states such that the d-valence electrons of Ni in the Ni(Co) plane occupy the higher states while the d-valence electron of Y occupies the lower state.
Thus, the d-valence electrons of Ni are in the basic state of third ionization energy of Ni, the d-valence electron of Y is in the state of third ionization energy of Y; and the s-valence electrons of Ni are in the basic state of first ionization energy of Ni, the s-valence electrons of Y are in the basic state of first ionization energy. Thus, the maximum value of the energy parameter |hNi| of the d-valence electrons of Ni is proportional to the third ionization energy of Ni, the maximum value of the energy parameter |hNi1| of the s-valence electrons of Ni is proportional to the first ionization energy of Ni; and the energy parameter |hY| of the s-valence electrons of Y is proportional to the first ionization energy of Y. Then, as LaNi5(1-x)Cu5x, we have the following formula of Tc of YNi5xCog5(1-x):
where ΔYNiCo=h=60|hNi|+15|hNi1|+|hY| is the energy gap of the superconductivity of YNi5xCo5(1-x)where the coefficients 15, 60=4.15 are from the
for the eight d-valence electrons of the Ni, and the 15 for the fifteen Ni(Co) atoms of the cluster of Ni(Co) atoms in a unit cell. (For simplicity we have simplified the effect of s, d-valence electrons of Co for ΔYNiCo).
We have |hNi|≈ξ3393 kJ/mol, |hNi1|≈ξ736.7 kJ/mol and |hY|≈ξ600 kJ/mol where 736.7 kJ/mol and 3393 kJ/mol are approximately the first and third ionization energies of Ni. Then from (59) we can compute the highest critical temperature Tc of YNi5xCo5(1-x) which is upped to:
T
c≈423.21K (Computed Tc of YNi5xCO5(1-x)) (60)
The rare earth elements or Y of all the above CaCu5-type superconductors may be replaced by the mixtures of rare earth elements such as Mm.
Let us consider an intermetallic Sr1-xCaxCu5 (0≦x≦1). This intermetallic is similar to the above intermetallic Sr1-xCaxGa2 with Ga2 replaced by Cu5, and is a special case of the above CaCu5-type intermetallic R1-xAxCu5 with x=1 (A denotes a mixture of Ca and Sr). We have that CaCu5 and SrCu5 can be formed in the CaCu5-type phase. Thus Sr1-xCaxCu5 can also be formed in the CaCu5-type phase. For the doping mechanism of superconductivity let us consider the following function:
f(x)=5500(1−x)+6491x (61)
where 6491 kJ/mol and 5500 kJ/mole are approximately the fourth ionization energies of Ca and Sr respectively. This function gives the relation that the increasing of x gives the increasing of h. Then we set the following relation of the degenerate state of channel opening:
f(x0)=5500(1−x0)+6491x0=5536 (62)
for some x0 (0<x0<1) where 5536 kJ/mol is approximately the fourth ionization energy of Cu. When this relation holds (or approximately holds), the channel connecting the two states of fourth ionization energy of Sr and Cu can be opened. This channel opening gives a freedom of electric current with a direction orthogonal to the Cu plane. From this freedom of electric current, the Cooper pairs of the 3s, 3p-level electrons of Cu and the 4s, 4p-level electrons of Sr can be formed. Thus this channel opening gives the 3D region of conventional superconductivity. From this 3D conventional superconductivity we have the existence of quasi-2D bifurcation region of high-Tc superconductivity given by the Cu plane. We notice that x0≈0.0363. Thus Sr1-xCaxCu5 comes into the range of superconductivity when x0≦x≦x1 for some x1 such that x0<x1<1. When (62) holds (or approximately holds) giving channel opening, the 3s, 3p-level electrons of Cu in the Cu plane are in the basic state of fourth ionization energy and the 4s, 4p-level electrons of Sr are in the basic state of fourth ionization energy, and that other states are to be reached from these two states. Further the 3s, 3p-level electrons of Cu and the 4s, 4p-level electrons of Sr are unified to occupy a sequence of states such that the 3s, 3p-level electrons of Cu in the Cu plane occupy the higher states while the 4s, 4p-level electrons of Sr occupy the lower states. Thus, the 3s, 3p-level electrons of Cu are in the state of fifth ionization energy of Cu; and the 4s, 4p-level electrons of Sr are in the basic state of fourth ionization energy. The 4s, 4p-level electrons of Sr in the basic state of fourth ionization energy are in the opened channel of 3D superconductivity, while the 3s, 3p-level electrons of Cu in the state of fifth ionization energy are for the quasi-2D high-Tc superconductivity of the Cu plane. Then when (62) holds giving channel opening the Cooper pairs of the s, p-valence electrons of Sr can also be formed. These s-valence electrons of Sr are in the basic state of first ionization energy (and can be in the states of third and second ionization energies of valence electrons respectively).
Thus, the energy parameter |hCu5| of the 3s, 3p-level electrons of Cu is proportional to the fifth ionization energy of Cu; the energy parameter |hSr4| of the 4s, 4p-level electrons of Sr is proportional to the fourth ionization energy of Sr; and the energy parameter |hSr| of the s-valence electrons of Sr is proportional to the first ionization energies Sr respectively (when the s-valence electrons of Sr is in the basic state of first ionization energy). Then, as Sr1-xCaxGa2, we have the following formula of Tc of Sr1-xCaxCu5:
where ΔCaSrCu=h=60|hCu5+4|hSr4|+|hSr| is the energy gap of superconductivity of Sr1-xCaxCu5 where the coefficients 4, 60=4.15 are from the
for the eight 3s, 3p-level electrons of the Cu or the eight 4s, 4p-level electrons of the Sr, and the 15 for the fifteen Cu atoms of the CaCu5-type structure, as the above case R1-xAxCu5 with x<1.
We have |hCu5|≈ξ7700 kJ/mol, |hSr|≈ξ549.5 kJ/mol and |hSr4|≈ξ5500 kJ/mol where 7700 kJ/mol is approximately the fifth ionization energy of Cu, and 549.5 kJ/mol is approximately the first ionization energy of Sr. Then from (63) we can compute the highest critical temperature Tc of Sr1-xCaxCu5 which is upped to:
T
c≈952.7K (Computed Tc of Sr1-xCaxCu5) (64)
Similar to the above intermetallic R1-xAxCu5, we may generally replace Cu with TM=Ni, Co, Zn and the mixture of Cu, Ni, Co, Zn to construct the intermetallic Sr1-xCaxTM5. Then we notice that this intermetallic R1-xAxCu5 (0<x<1) where R denotes a rare earth element including the element Y and the mixture thereof may have two cases of high-Tc superconductivity: a case is the case of the Cu d-electron (from the effect of both A and R) and the other case is the case of the Cu s, p-electron (from the effect of A only or from the effect of both A and R). When both cases of superconductivity appear at some doping, the effects of superconductivity of these two cases can be combined. From this combination of effects of superconductivity we can have a larger critical current consisting of d-electrons and s, p-electrons and a higher critical temperature T. As an example let us consider the intermetallic La1-xSrx(1-y)CaxyCu5 (0<x, y<1). Let the doping parameters x, y be such that
(1−y)5500+y6491=5536
When this relation of the degenerate state of channel opening holds (or approximately holds), the s, p-channel connecting the two states of fourth ionization energy of the 3s, 3p-electrons of Cu and the 4s, 4p-electrons of Sr can be opened, and also the d-channel connecting the two states of ionization energy of the 3d-electrons of Cu and the 5d-electron of La can be opened. This two-channel-opening gives a freedom of electric current with a direction orthogonal to the Cu plane. From this freedom of electric current, the Cooper pairs of the 3s, 3p, 3d-electrons of Cu and the 4s, 4p-electrons of Sr can be formed. Then, this two-channel-opening can give two types of high-Tc superconductivity: the s, p-electron superconductivity and the d-electron superconductivity. This combination of s, p-electron superconductivity and d-electron superconductivity can give larger critical current and higher critical temperature Tc.
A General Form of CaCu5-Type Intermetallics
We notice that the hexagonal unit cells of the above examples of CaCu5-type intermetallics are with a large cluster of superconducting electrons, thus these CaCu5-type intermetallics are with high critical current density of superconducting current. Also we notice that the doping of the above CaCu5-type (or AlB2-type) intermetallics gives the degenerate state of channel opening for superconductivity. Thus the doping of the above CaCu5-type (or AlB2-type) intermetallics has the effect of introducing pinning centers of superconducting current to these CaCu5-type (or AlB2-type) intermetallics.
We may apply more dopings to form more CaCu5-type intermetallics. For superconductivity these dopings must give the degenerate state of channel opening. By more dopings we have the following form of intermetallic which includes the above examples of CaCu5-type intermetallics:
R1-xAx(TM5(1-y)My)1+z (66)
where 0≦y≦y0=0.02, 0≦z≦z0=0.01 for some small parameters y0, z0 (The doping parameters y0, z0 are small to keep the CaCu5-type phase); TM=Cu, Ni, Co, Zn, and M is a mixture of elements Ti, Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Zr, Nb, Mo, Hf, Ta, W, Ga, In, Al, Si, Ge, Sn. These elements are with states of second or third ionization energies quite close to that of R or TM. Thus for some chosen M, y and z, this intermetallic can give the degenerate state of channel opening.
From the properties of the CaCu5-type intermetallic (66) we have a process of manufacturing CaCu5-type superconductors, as follows. The powders of constituent of a CaCu5-type intermetallic (66) are first mixed in accordance with the composition. Then the mixture of powders are melted in an induction furnace under argon atmosphere at a temperature between 800 C. and 1600 C. After the materials are melted, the melt is maintained at the same temperature for 20 minutes to 1 hour to achieve better homogeneity. The melt is then poured into a mold and under pressure between the ambient pressure and 6 GPa cooled down for solidification and for the formation of said CaCu5 phase. After cooling, under pressure between ambient pressure and 6 GPa the resulting CaCu5-type ingot is annealed in a furnace at a temperature between 600° C. and 1200° C. in an argon atmosphere for 0.5 to 24 hours to achieve the state that the 3d-level (or 3s, 3p-level) electrons of TM=Cu, Ni, Co, Zn and the mixture thereof are in the degenerate state of channel opening. This gives the bulk form of the superconductor R1-xAx(TM5(1-y)My)1+z.
From the properties of the CaCu5-type superconductors, we have the following process of manufacturing these CaCu5-type superconductors in wire form:
There exist various methods of manufacturing thin films such as the chemical vapor deposition (CVD), the method of magnetron sputtering, the method of molecular beam epitaxy (MBE), and the method of pulsed laser position (PLD). By using these methods for the above CaCu5-type (or AlB2-type) superconductors and from the properties and structure of these CaCu5-type (or AlB2-type) superconductors, we have processes of manufacturing thin films of these CaCu5-type (or AlB2-type) superconductors. Since these CaCu5-type (or AlB2-type) superconductors are with the hexagonal crystal structure, besides the conventional substrates for depositing thin films such as the silicon substrate, substrates with hexagonal texture are suitable as the substrate for depositing thin films of these CaCu5-type (or AlB2-type) superconductors. For example, when the CaCu5-type intermetallics R1-x
From the properties of CaCu5-type intermetallics R1-x
A General Form of Intermetallics with Hexagonal Crystal Structure of Three Layers
We can express the above examples of CaCu5-type and AlB2-type superconductors into the following general form of intermetallics:
R1-x′E(1-x″)x′Ax″x′[(Dm(1-x′″)Gmx′″)1-yMy]1+z (67)
wherein R denotes rare earth elements (including Y) and mixture thereof, E and A denote alkaline earth elements and mixture thereof and E≠A when x′=1, such that said R, E, A elements are in the upper and lower layers of the hexagonal crystal structure of three layers of (67) and D=Cu, Ga, Al, Si, Ni, Co, Zn and G=Cu, Ga, Ge, Si, Ni, Co, Zn are elements in the middle layer forming a conducting layer and may also be in the upper and lower layers, and m=2 or 5, and x′, x″, x′″ are doping parameters such that 0≦x′≦1, 0.01≦x″≦0.9, 0≦x′″≦1; and M=Ti, Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Zr, Nb, Mo, Hf, Ta, W, Al, Ga, In, Si, Ge, Sn and mixture thereof, and 0≦y≦0.02, 0≦z≦0.01.
When m=2 this intermetallics (67) is formed with the AlB2-type crystal structure and when m=5 this intermetallics (67) is formed with the CaCu5-type crystal structure. For this intermetallic (67) to be in the state of superconductivity, this intermetallic (67) is doped to be in the degenerate state of channel opening as specified in the above examples.
This application claims the benefit of provisional patent application Ser. No. 61/408,701, filed Nov. 1, 2010 by the present inventor.
Number | Date | Country | |
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61408701 | Nov 2010 | US |