The course is part of the Quantum Science and Technology curriculum of the Master's Degree in Engineering Physics.
Students will be offered an overview of several classes of quantum materials, which possess unconventional properties that are already having a significant impact on our daily lives. For example, quantum materials are present in common technologies such as hospital MRI machines, which use superconductors, and hard disk drives, which employ giant magnetoresistance sensors. These unconventional properties are direct manifestations of quantum mechanical effects on a macroscopic scale, without which it is impossible to even form an approximate image of these materials.
Among the unconventional properties, particular emphasis will be placed on superconductivity. This property of matter holds enormous potential: by taking full control of that, the ambitious goal is to lead in the near future to unprecedented innovative solutions for sustainability, which is one of the primary missions of the Department of Molecular Sciences and Nanosystems. For example, superconductivity allows for the transport of electricity without energy losses, enhancing the efficiency of power distribution systems. Additionally, it has significant applications in transportation, such as magnetic levitation trains, which promise faster and cleaner transportation. The search for superconducting materials with critical temperatures closer to room temperature is one of the most promising frontiers for revolutionizing technology and reducing environmental impact.
Therefore, the course addresses cutting-edge topics in ongoing research not only within the Department but also in the broader contemporary scientific community, particularly in condensed matter physics, both basic and applied. Through this course, students will develop theoretical skills to understand quantum materials and analyze the fundamental models and properties of superconductors. Additionally, the course will include the study of some modern experimental techniques commonly used for the characterization and analysis of these materials.
By the end of the course, students will be able to develop critical thinking about contemporary scientific literature and will be prepared to actively contribute to technological and scientific innovation in the field of quantum materials.
Students will be offered an overview of several classes of quantum materials, which possess unconventional properties that are already having a significant impact on our daily lives. For example, quantum materials are present in common technologies such as hospital MRI machines, which use superconductors, and hard disk drives, which employ giant magnetoresistance sensors. These unconventional properties are direct manifestations of quantum mechanical effects on a macroscopic scale, without which it is impossible to even form an approximate image of these materials.
Among the unconventional properties, particular emphasis will be placed on superconductivity. This property of matter holds enormous potential: by taking full control of that, the ambitious goal is to lead in the near future to unprecedented innovative solutions for sustainability, which is one of the primary missions of the Department of Molecular Sciences and Nanosystems. For example, superconductivity allows for the transport of electricity without energy losses, enhancing the efficiency of power distribution systems. Additionally, it has significant applications in transportation, such as magnetic levitation trains, which promise faster and cleaner transportation. The search for superconducting materials with critical temperatures closer to room temperature is one of the most promising frontiers for revolutionizing technology and reducing environmental impact.
Therefore, the course addresses cutting-edge topics in ongoing research not only within the Department but also in the broader contemporary scientific community, particularly in condensed matter physics, both basic and applied. Through this course, students will develop theoretical skills to understand quantum materials and analyze the fundamental models and properties of superconductors. Additionally, the course will include the study of some modern experimental techniques commonly used for the characterization and analysis of these materials.
By the end of the course, students will be able to develop critical thinking about contemporary scientific literature and will be prepared to actively contribute to technological and scientific innovation in the field of quantum materials.
- Teacher: Riccardo ARPAIA