High Temperature Superconductors (HTS) are materials that conduct electricity without any resistance when cooled to certain temperatures. This unique property makes them a topic of great interest in the world of physics and technology. The term "high temperature" is relative to the world of superconductors, where most materials become superconducting at extremely low temperatures close to absolute zero. HTS materials start showing superconducting properties at comparatively higher temperatures, still in the range of -140 degrees Celsius.
Superconductors are not new. They were discovered in 1911, but the ones that worked only at extremely low temperatures were not practical for most applications. The discovery of HTS in 1986 was a breakthrough, as these could operate at temperatures achievable with liquid nitrogen, which is comparatively inexpensive and easier to handle.
HTS have numerous potential benefits and applications. The most significant benefit is the efficient transmission of electricity. Without resistance, there is no energy loss in the form of heat during transmission. This efficiency can revolutionize power grids, making them more reliable and economical. Other potential applications include powerful electromagnets for MRI machines, more efficient electric motors, and high-speed magnetic levitation trains.
While the promise of HTS is enormous, there are still challenges to overcome. Manufacturing HTS materials is complex and expensive, and getting them to work at room temperature remains a significant challenge. However, many companies are investing in research and development to unlock the full potential of HTS.
One of the top businesses in this field is American Superconductor Corporation. They are leading the way in the development and manufacture of HTS wires and large-scale applications, such as wind turbine generators and power cables. Another notable company is Bruker Corporation, which uses HTS in its scientific instruments. In Asia, Sumitomo Electric Industries has been a pioneer in HTS technology, developing superconducting power cables and other equipment.
High-temperature superconductors hold a great promise for a more efficient and technologically advanced future. It's an exciting field, where the line between science fiction and reality is becoming increasingly blurred. As businesses and researchers continue to innovate, we may soon see the widespread use of these extraordinary materials.