Quasiparticle dynamics in superconducting tunnel junctions

A.G. Kozorezov, G. Brammertz, G. Brammertz, R.A. Hijmering, J.K. Wigmore, A. Peacock, B. Martin, D. Martin, P. Verhoeve, Alexandre Avraamovitch Golubov, Horst Rogalla

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Abstract

Superconducting Tunnel Junctions (STJs) used as single photon detectors possess extreme sensitivity and excellent resolving power. However, like many other cryogenic detectors they operate under extremely non-equilibrium conditions. In order to understand the physics of the non-equilibrium, non-stationary state, to interpret experimental data adequately, and to optimize the STJs unique performance, it is necessary to use a fully kinetic approach. We have developed the detailed theory of interactions between quasiparticles (qps) and the two types of phonons, sub-gap and pair-breaking, in STJ photon detectors. We discuss the results of extensive sets of experiments to study the non-equilibrium state in Al-based STJs. For the first time we are capable of explaining all available data systematically using a single set of parameters determined from STJ diagnostics and independent experiments.
Original languageUndefined
Pages (from-to)695-
JournalNuclear instruments & methods in physics research. Section A : Accelerators, spectrometers, detectors and associated equipment
Volume559
Issue number2
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2006

Keywords

  • IR-74517
  • METIS-233776

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