Applied Superconductivity

Superconductivity is broadly recognised for its contribution to solving key research and societal challenges in Energy and Healthcare sectors. This theme includes research into the synthesis, characterisation and understanding of superconducting materials, as well as the design, modelling and testing of superconducting devices.

Superconductors that carry electricity with no resistance can be used to develop superefficient devices, such as power cables and electric machines. These devices will greatly support the reform of energy system by diversifying supply and weaning the world away from fossil fuels, providing opportunities for secure, affordable and low-carbon energy. Superconductors also underpin a healthy industrial base of medical imaging and acceleration instrumentation.

This research theme focuses on high temperature superconductors and their applications in both Energy and Healthcare sectors, such as power generators, power cables, fault current limiters, energy storage, accelerators, and magnetic resonance imagery. We also explore novel applications of superconductors such as superconducting wireless power transmission and superconducting fast charging for electric vehicles.

Staff:

Quan Li (Theme Leader)

Markus Mueller

Research areas:

  • Multiphysics modelling and experimental testing
  • Superconducting power generation, transmission and storage
  • Superconducting power network protection
  • Superconducting medical accelerators and imaging
  • Cryogenics and efficient cooling
Magnetic levitation of superconductor
Magnetic levitation of superconductor
Design of superconducting power generator
Design of superconducting power generator