Three-dimensional flux-sensor composed of high-Tc superconductor

A three-dimensional flux sensor has been studied with the aim of realizing a practical application of high-T_c oxide superconductor Y-Ba-Cu-O. Thick-film and cylindrical sensors were made and examined. The current-voltage characteristics were investigated as a function of magnetic field at liquid nitrogen temperature. The flux flow was observed in a wide range of magnetic fields from 0.001 to 1 Tesla, and the magnetic field could be evaluated by the output voltage. The dependence of the voltage on the angle between the current and magnetic field direction was also examined. The flux flow was affected by the direction of the external magnetic field, resulting in a change of the output voltage. The output voltage was found to show hysteresis with respect to the external field. On the basis of these phenomena, a three-dimensional flux sensor was designed and fabricated