Presentation of a research project

Searching for
Room Temperature Superconductors

Image: Origin not known

Version 47 from 4 January 2017

Dr. Frank Lichtenberg / Physicist

www.novam-research.com

Copyright © 2008 – 2017 Frank Lichtenberg

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This presentation can be downloaded as pdf via the following
link (file size about 4 MB):

www.novam-research.com/resources/Research_Project_Room_Temperature_Superconductors.pdf

2
 Abstract

The interesting and fascinating physical

phenomenon of superconductivity
appears, until now, only at very low
temperatures and therefore its technical
application is limited to relatively few
areas. If it is possible to create materials
which are superconducting at room
temperature, then this could initiate a
revolution in science and technology. This
slide set presents some basics, research
results, ideas, hypotheses and approaches

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 Content overview 1 / 2

 Superconductivity
 Introduction
 Applications
 Superconductivity as a quantum physical phenomenon
 The presently highest Tc and the vision of superconductivity at room temperature
 Do man-made room temperature superconductors already exist ?

 Searching for new superconductors among oxides

 Own research work in the field of oxides
 Synthesis of oxide materials
 Oxides of the type AnBnO3n+2 : Crystal structure, physical properties, and why they
might have a potential to create high-Tc or room temperature superconductors

 Extended approaches or hypotheses concerning the search for room temperature

superconductors: The chemical element Nb (niobium)

 Extended approaches or hypotheses concerning the search for room temperature

superconductors: The tripartition of the chemical elements
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 Content overview 2 / 2

 Extended approaches or hypotheses concerning the search for room temperature

superconductors: Global Scaling - A holistic approach in science
 Introduction into Global Scaling
 Another examples of Fundamental Fractals
 Global Scaling and superconductivity
 A possible view of the transition temperatures of superconductors
 Global Scaling and the search for room temperature superconductors
 Global Scaling: Examples of open questions

 Closing Words

 Further information:
 The verification of superconductivity: Zero resistance and Meissner effect
 Superconductivity: Applications in the area of entirely novel energy technologies
 Superconductivity and ECE Theory
 The periodic table of the chemical elements
 More about oxides of the type AnBnO3n+2
 About the author
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Note:

References in the text to other pages

and some dates are underlined, for
example page 67 and November 2015

That facilitates their adjustment in case

of a modified or updated version of this
presentation

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 Superconductivity

 Introduction

 Applications

 Superconductivity as a quantum physical phenomenon

 The presently highest Tc and the vision of

superconductivity at room temperature

 Do man-made room temperature superconductors

already exist ?

7
 Superconductivity – Special physical phenomenon of some materials
which appears below a material-specific low temperature Tc

 The superconducting state shows Magnets Superconductor

several special features such as

Origin not known

 Electrical DC resistance disappears,  Levitation
i.e. lossless current transport above

Image:
magnets

 Very interesting for research, science and technology

 Cooling down to low temperatures inconvenient  Tc preferably as high as possible

 For decades the alloy Nb3Ge was that material with the highest Tc , namely
- 250 °C, and the search for materials with higher Tc was unsuccessful

Recommended reading:  Book “Supraleitung:Grundlagen und Anwendungen“

by W. Buckel and R. Kleiner (in German)

 www.superconductors.org
Note that their highest Tc claims do not represent established values
8
 Superconductivity – 1986 surprising breakthrough in
Switzerland concerning higher Tc and type of materials

 J. G. Bednorz and K. A. Mueller from the IBM Zurich Research Laboratory

discovered in oxides 1 with the chemical composition
(La,Ba)2CuO4 superconductivity with Tc = - 238 °C, i.e. K. A. Mueller
and
12 °C higher than that of Nb3Ge. For their discovery
J. G. Bednorz
they received in 1987 the Nobel Prize in physics.
Image:
1
Oxides are chemical compounds between oxygen ( O ) and metals www.uzh.ch/news/articles/2006/2005.html

 Worldwide avalanche of research activities of unprecedented extent

 Discovery of further oxides with higher Tc which are likewise based on

copper (Cu), e.g. YBa2Cu3O7 with Tc = - 182 °C which can be cooled by
liquid nitrogen (- 196 °C) in a relatively simple and cost-effective way

 March 1987 in the New York Hilton Hotel: Meeting of about 2000 physicists
owing to superconductivity, known as “Woodstock in Physics“.
Wave of enthusiasm due to superconductivity !

Recommended reading: Nobel lecture of J. G. Bednorz and K. A. Mueller:

http://nobelprize.org/nobel_prizes/physics/laureates/1987/bednorz-muller-lecture.pdf
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 Crystal structure (crystallographic unit cell)
of the high-Tc superconductor YBa2Cu3O7 – y

 Layered crystal structure Y

Ba
 Tc = - 182 °C and thus its
superconductivity can be Cu
maintained in a relatively O
simple and cost-effective
way by using liquid Cu – O layers
nitrogen which has a
temperature of - 196 °C
Cu – O chains

 Tc depends on oxygen
deficiency y , highest
 0.4 nm 1 nm = 10 – 6 mm = 0.000001 mm
value for y  0.07
Image:
www.fom.nl/live/imgnew.db?55473

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 Examples of manifestations of solid matter such as oxides

Thin film, thickness e.g. 120 nm

substrate

Crystals – Pieces cleaved from as-grown Thin film – polycrystalline

sample or cut and polished or crystalline

Powder Polycrystalline parts made of

(polycrystalline) powder which was pressed
or molded, sintered, and,
if necessary, machined
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 Superconductivity – Applications

 Areas of applications depend on chemical and mechanical properties of the

superconducting material (raw materials, preparation, processing …) and
specific features of the superconducting state

 Examples of already realized industrial applications of so-called

high-Tc superconductors which are based on copper (Cu) and oxygen (O)
such as YBa2Cu3O7 – y which is cooled by liquid nitrogen:
 Measurement and sensor technology: Detection of very weak magnetic fields,
e.g. for material testing, searching for ores, medicine
 Communication technology: Microwave filters
 Electrical engineering: Generators  Motors (e.g. for ship propulsion) 
Strong electromagnets (e.g. for separation of ores)  Cabels for current transport

 Superconductors also have an application potential

in the area of computer technology

 Recommended reading: “High-Temperature Superconductors Get to Work“ by

A. P. Malozemoff, J. Mannhart and D. Scalapino, Physics Today 4 (2005) 41 – 47

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 Superconductivity – A quantum physical phenomenon

 Superconductivity does not only mean DC resistance R = 0 but comprises other

phenomena, e.g. special magnetic properties like the so-called Meissner effect
(see page 106 ), which cannot be explained solely by R = 0

 For the verification of superconductivity see pages 105 and 106

 Peculiar quantum physical state of the so-called conduction electrons

 Conduction electrons: delocalized  responsible for the metallic behavior of

the electrical resistivity  energetically located in close vicinity to the highest
occupied states / energies, i.e. in the vicinity of the so-called Fermi energy

 Conduction electrons form pairs, so-called Cooper pairs, which consist of 2 electrons

 Cooper pairs form a coherent state (Bose-Einstein condensation) so that the electrons
have a strong tendency to behave in the same manner or to stay in the same state

 Pair formation requires an attractive interaction between the electrons which

usually repel each other because of their negative electric charge …
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 Superconductivity – A quantum physical phenomenon

 Attractive interaction under special conditions which are realized in some materials
 e.g. via the so-called electron-phonon interaction, i.e. the interaction
between negatively charged electrons and the oscillations of the
positively charged ions of the crystal lattice
 Another possibility via electron-electron interactions at the so-called
excitonic superconductivity (see pages 58 – 60 )
 Recent suggestion: Superconductivity as a condensate of
ordered zero-point oscillations of the conduction electrons
See paper by B. V. Vasiliev, published in arxiv.org as
arXiv:1009.2293v5 [physics.gen-ph] 13 October 2011:
http://arxiv.org/PS_cache/arxiv/pdf/1009/1009.2293v5.pdf
See also http://arxiv.org/abs/1009.2293 and an article published in
Physica C 471 (2011) 277. Many thanks to Dr. Felix Scholkmann
for the communication of this paper

 For many superconductors, escpecially for the Cu-based high-Tc superconductors,

it is not yet clarified how the superconductivity comes about
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 Superconductivity – The presently highest Tc

Until now - December 2016 - the highest established value (under ambient atmospheric
pressure) is still Tc = - 135 °C. This is achieved by the Cu - based oxide
Hg0.8Tl0.2Ba2Ca2Cu3O8 + y . It has a layered crystal structure and was reported
in 1995 by P. Dai et al. in Physica C / Superconductivity 243 (1995) 201 - 206

 Often unverified reports and rumors about materials with higher Tc

 For example, www.superconductors.org presents another Cu - based oxides
with higher Tc values. However, the presented indications for superconductivity
appear relatively weak and their Tc‘s do not represent established values

 The currently highest Tc for Cu - free materials (under ambient atmospheric pressure)
 - 220 °C for GdFeAsO1 – y . Its crystal structure is of ZrCuSiAs type and consists
of alternating Fe – As and Gd – O layers
J. Yang et al. in Superconducting Science and Technology 21 (2008) 1 – 3

 about - 180 °C in the system Na – W – O (see page 61 )

Note: The most common units of temperature T are °C and K. They are
related by the simple conversion formula T [ K ] = T [ °C ] + 273 K
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 Superconductivity – A vision, dream or wish

Superconductivity at room temperature !

For example a material with Tc = + 90 °C

 No cooling required  Applications possible in many areas

 Probably – i.e. dependent on the properties of the material

and the superconducting state – a revolution in technology
including the possibility of the development of fundamentally
new and entirely unexpected things

 Superconductivity in everyday life / in everyday devices !?

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 Do man-made room temperature superconductors already exist ?

So-called ultraconductors reported by the Aesop Institute:

 See www.aesopinstitute.org/ultraconductors.html
 Organic polymer materials with zero resistance, i.e. resistivity < 10 – 11  cm
 Anomalous electric properties like absence of heat generation under high current
The following reports have been cleared for public release (file size 600 kB - 4 MB):
Report 1 from 1995: http://novam-research.com/resources/Ultraconductors_Report-1_1995.pdf
Report 2 from 1996: http://novam-research.com/resources/Ultraconductors_Report-2_1996.pdf
Report 3 from 1998: http://novam-research.com/resources/Ultraconductors_Report-3_1998.pdf
Report 4 from 1999: http://novam-research.com/resources/Ultraconductors_Report-4_1999.pdf

Special metal-hydrogen materials reported by two German patent applications:

 “Offenlegungsschriften“ DE 101 09 973 A1 and DE 10 2008 047 334 A1 published
in 2002 and March 2010 (in German):
See http://depatisnet.dpma.de/DepatisNet/depatisnet?action=pdf&docid=DE000010109973A1
and http://depatisnet.dpma.de/DepatisNet/depatisnet?action=pdf&docid=DE102008047334A1
 Materials are described in the context of cold fusion  Zero resistance reported
 Further information about these materials only for licensees

So far no public reports of the presence of the Meissner effect (see page 106 ). Therefore
it is presently not clear if these interesting materials are really superconductors
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 Searching for new superconductors among oxides

 Own research work in the field of oxides

 Synthesis of oxide materials

 Oxides of the type AnBnO3n+2 : Crystal structure, physical

properties, and why they might have a potential to
create high-Tc or room temperature superconductors

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 Own research work in the field of oxides 1/2

Research area and motivation: Synthesis of (new) oxides and study of their
physical and structural properties, especially
searching for new superconductors

1989 – 1992: Doctoral thesis in the department of Dr. J. Georg Bednorz

at the IBM Zurich Research Laboratory (Switzerland)
Field of work: Synthesis of oxides – especially in crystalline form
via the melt – and study of their physical and structural properties

1997 – 2007: Research scientist in the department of Prof. Dr. Jochen Mannhart
at the Institute of Physics of the University of Augsburg (Germany)
 Field of work: Setting up a new laboratory and synthesis of
oxides – especially in crystalline form via the melt – and
study of their physical and structural properties
 Preparation and study of about 500 different oxides
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 Own research work in the field of oxides 2/2

Since 2011: Research scientist in the division of Prof. Dr. Nicola Spaldin at the
Department of Materials of the ETH Zurich (Switzerland):
www.theory.mat.ethz.ch/people/person-detail.html?persid=178061
and www.theory.mat.ethz.ch/lab.html
Field of work: Setting up a new laboratory, synthesis of oxides –
especially in crystalline form via the melt – and study of their physical
and structural properties, and teaching. A pdf presentation about the
lab for the synthesis and study of oxides and related topics can be
downloaded via the following link (file size at least 34 MB, at least
437 slides or pages): www.theory.mat.ethz.ch/lab/presentation1.pdf

Article about special oxides which is published in Progress in Solid State

Chemistry 36 (2008) 253 - 387 (file size about 3 MB pdf):
www.novam-research.com/resources/Article-on-special-oxides_2008.pdf

Presentation about the properties and potentialities of oxides of the type AnBnO3n+2
(file size about 15 MB pdf): www.theory.mat.ethz.ch/lab/presentation2.pdf
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 Synthesis of oxide materials

On the following pages 22 - 37 we consider

the preparation of crystalline oxides via a
solidification from the melt by a mirror furnace …

More about the synthesis of oxide materials

is described in another presentation (file size at
least 34 MB pdf, at least 437 slides or pages):
www.theory.mat.ethz.ch/lab/presentation1.pdf

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 Sketch of a process of materials preparation 1 / 2

1) It starts always with an idea about a (new or apriori hypothetical) oxide material,
i.e. devise a chemical composition such as Sr5Nb5O17 or La6Ti4Fe2O20

2) Select appropriate starting materials from commercially available powders such

as oxides Nb2O5 , La2O3 , TiO2 , Fe2O3 , carbonates like SrCO3 , and metals
such as Nb

3) Stoichiometric calculation: Calculate the amounts (mass, weight) of the selected

starting materials according to the devised or desired chemical composition

4) Weigh the calculated amounts of the starting materials by an analytical balance

5) Grind / mix the weighed starting materials by a mortar and pestle

6) Pre-reaction in air: Heat the grinded powder mixture at elevated temperatures in

a laboratory chamber furnace

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 Sketch of a process of materials preparation 2 / 2

7) Grind / mix the pre-reacted powder mixture by a mortar and pestle - in some
cases another starting material is added to the pre-reacted powder mixture

8) Press the powder mixture obtained in step 7 into the form of two rods

9) Sinter the as-pressed rods at elevated temperatures under an appropriate

atmosphere such as under air in a laboratory chamber furnace or under
argon in a tube furnace

10) Try to synthesize the devised or desired oxide in a crystalline form via a
solidification from the melt by processing the sintered rods in a mirror
furnace under an appropriate atmosphere such as air or argon

11) Examine by powder x-ray diffraction if the synthesized oxide material is

single phase or multiphase and if it shows the desired crystal structure

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 Examples of commercially available starting materials

Fe2O3 powder WO3 powder SrCO3 powder Nd2O3 powder

Storage of starting
materials in an alumina
crucible in a desiccator
Mn2O3 powder
Nb powder in this example

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 Preparation and handling of powder mixtures

Spatula and Analytical Grinding or mixing powder Alumina crucible

weighing paper balance by a mortar and pestle filled with powder

High temperature ceramics: High temperature ceramics:

Various types of crucibles and Various types of boats and
discs / lids made of alumina boxes made of alumina
25
Examples of special furnaces

Non-gas-tight laboratory chamber furnace

For removing moisture of starting materials,
pre-reactions, calcination, sintering or synthesis
of polycrystalline materials in air

Gas-tight tube furnace

For preparation or sintering of polycrystalline
materials under various non-air atmospheres
such as oxygen, argon, argon plus hydrogen,
or vacuum

Gas-tight mirror furnace / floating zone melting furnace

For synthesis of crystalline oxides via a
solidification from the melt under various
atmospheres like oxygen, air, argon,
argon plus hydrogen or vacuum
26
Pressing dies for the preparation of rods for the mirror furnace

Custom-made pressing dies made of ceramics

Type C with
square punch for
other samples
Type C
Type B with
rectangular punch
85 mm for seed rods with
length 35 mm and
width 3,5 mm
Type A with
rectangular punch
for feed rods with
Type A Type B length 85 mm and
width 4,5 mm
Yellow parts made of magnesia stabilized zirconia

27
 Several types of lower punches on which the powder is pressed

Lower punches for the pressing die type A (feed rod), type B (seed rod) and type C

B C Lower punches
made of alumina
- usable up to 1950 °C

B C Lower punches made of

yttria stabilized zirconia
- usable up to 1500 °C

28
 Example of an as-pressed feed rod for the mirror furnace

85 mm

1 2

3 Rectangular rod with a continuous hole - made of pressed powder

Chemical composition of the pressed powder in this example: 0,6 Nb + 0,2 Nb2O5
2 Lower punch - made of alumina
1 Base plate - made of magnesia stabilized zirconia
The powder was pressed with a pressing force of 1 kN. The as-pressed rod is
mechanically not stable. If it is touched in a not very careful way, then it becomes
damaged or destroyed. However, the rod is needed in a mechanically stable
form. Therefore the lower punch and the pressed rod will be placed into an
alumina box and heated to an appropriate high temperature under a suitable
atmosphere which results in sintering and chemical solid state reactions
29
Feed rod and seed rod for the mirror furnace before and after sintering

Pressed rods on their lower alumina punch

in an alumina box before sintering
Chemical composition of the powder
in this example: 0,6 Nb + 0,2 Nb2O5

Pressed rods on their lower alumina punch

in an alumina box after sintering them
for 1 h at 1150 °C under argon
The color change of the rods from white-grey to
black is due to chemical solid state reactions like
0,6 Nb + 0,2 Nb2O5  NbO

Sintered feed rod with continuous hole

85 mm
Sintered
seed rod
30
 Mirror furnace

8 Exhaust gas line

at the gas outlet
8
7 Cooling water port
5 7
6 Turbo pumping station
with oil-free backing
2 pump
4
3 5 Gas inlet and gas flow
control system
6 4 Mirror furnace in the
1 locked status

3 Oxygen analyzer to
measure the oxygen
2 Monitor that displays via a video camera an content of argon
image of the molten zone and solid zones at the gas outlet

1 Control cabinet
31
Mirror furnace – Casing open and mirrors M1 and M2 locked

M1 M2

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 Mirror furnace – Mirrors unlocked

1 Elliptical and
gold-coated mirror
2 Halogen lamp,
maximum power
1 1 1000 W
3 Quartz glass tube,
3 inside lower and
upper shaft
Mirrors and lamps
2 2 are cooled by cooling
water and a flow of
compressed air

 Mirrors are gold-coated because that enhances their infrared reflectivity

 Heating-up and melting of the feed and seed rod material
takes mainly place by its infrared absorption
33
 Mirror furnace – Equipped with seed rod and feed rod

Feed rod (4) fixed

and centered by a 5 The lower shaft (3)
special sample
and the upper
holder (5) onto the
shaft (6), and thus
upper shaft (6)
the seed rod (1)
and the feed
4 rod (4), can be
Seed rod (1) fixed
rotated and
and centered by a 1
vertically moved
special sample
by electric
holder (2) onto the 2
direct drives
lower shaft (3)

34
Mirror furnace – Snap-shot from a floating zone melting process

Snap-shot from an example of a floating

Bottom

18 mm / h
zone melting process: Synthesis of
part of
solid crystalline Sr2Nb2O7
feed
rod Chemical composition of polycrystalline
sintered seed and feed rod is Sr2Nb2O7
Molten which melts at about 1650 °C
zone

gas flov
Lamp power: About 2  400 W

Upper part Atmosphere: Synthetic air, gas flow rate

of solid 300 sccm = 18 Liter / h
as-grown
14 mm / h

material -
Solidified or Feed rod: Translation (rotation) speed
crystallized 18 mm / h (10 rpm counterclockwise)
from the
melt Seed rod: Translation (rotation) speed
14 mm / h (10 rpm clockwise)
about 4 mm
35
 Examples of melt-grown oxides prepared by a mirror furnace
Ca4EuNb5O17 – Eu 2+ / 4f 7 and Nb 4.8+ / 4d 0.2
grown with 15 mm / h in argon  blue-black electrical conductor
structure type n = 5 of the layered perovskite-related series AnBnO3n+2 = ABOx

polycrystalline
seed rod
45 mm

whole as-grown sample

plate-like
4 mm crystal
part of the 28 mm obtained by
as-grown crushing /
sample cleaving the
as-grown
sample

Progress in Solid State Chemistry 36 (2008) 253

36
 Examples of melt-grown oxides prepared by a mirror furnace
Layered perovskite-related AnBnO3n+2 = ABOx
Pieces and plate-like crystals from as-grown samples

5mm

Sr4Nb4O14 = SrNbO3.50 Sr5Nb5O17.05 = SrNbO3.41

Nb 5+ / 4d 0 Nb 4.82+ / 4d 0.18
Grown in air Grown in argon
White transparent Blue-black quasi-1D metal
high-Tc ferroelectric insulator Structure type n = 5
Tc = 1615 K
Structure type n = 4

Progress in Solid State Chemistry 29 (2001) 1 and 36 (2008) 253

Physical Review B 70 (2004) 245123  Physical Review Letters 89 (2002) 236403
37
Electrical contacts for resistivity measurements on crystals

U I
b

I U c

Progress in Solid State Chemistry 36 (2008) 253

38
 Oxides of the type AnBnO3n+2

 Crystal structure

 Physical properties

 Why they might have a potential to create high-Tc

or room temperature superconductor

39
 Sketch of the = BO6 octahedra (O located at corners, B hidden in center)
perovskite-related
structure of
b

n=4
AnBnO3n +2 = ABOx
B = Ti, Nb, Ta c II [110] perovskite

n=5
n = layer thickness
= number of BO6
octahedra along
c-axis per layer

Existence of n=4
non-integral
series members
n=5

such as n = 4.5:
Ordered intergrowth
of layers with
n=4 n = 4.5 n=5 n=
different thickness
ABO3.50 ABO3.44 ABO3.40 ABO3 perovskite
compositional examples: SrNbO3.50 SrNbO3.44 SrNbO3.40 SrNbO3
40
 BO6 octahedra (O located at corners, B hidden in center) =

b a
Sketch of the
pronounced structural Distortion
c c
anisotropy of of BO6
AnBnO3n +2 = ABOx by octahedra
in percent
using n = 5 as example
typical 23
values 17
for n = 5 3
B – O linkage:
17
 zig-zag along b-axis Often 23
significant
 chains along a-axis influence of
 interruptions along c-axis distortions
 layered crystal structure on physical
properties

A5B5O17 = ABO3.40 (n = 5)

41
Some features of AnBnO3n+2 = ABOx insulators (B = Ti 4 +, Nb 5 + or Ta 5 + )

● The highest-Tc ferroelectrics are n = 4 type materials,

e.g. LaTiO3.50 (Tc = 1770 K) Nanamatsu et al , Ferroelectrics 8 (1974) 511

● Ferroelectrics: even n = 2, 4, 6 – Antiferroelectrics: odd n = 3, 5, 7

● Compounds with non-integral n (see page 39)

e.g. CaNb0.89Ti0.11O3.44 (n = 4.5) Nanot et al , J. Solid State Chem. 28 (1979) 137

● Compounds known for n = 2 , 3 , 4 , 4.33 , 4.5 , 5 , 6 , 7

● Complex structural details like incommensurate modulations,

e.g. in SrNbO3.50 (n = 4) Daniels et al , Acta Cryst. B 58 (2002) 970

● Possibility of limited concentration of ions B‘ = Al 3+, Fe 3+ … at B site:

B = (Ti, Nb, Ta)1 – y B‘y with y  0.33

42
 AnBnO3n+2 = ABOx electronic conductors

No reports before 1991

The only exception:

Structural study on conducting CaNbOx (3.4  x < 3.5)

Physical properties not reported / studied

M. Hervieu et al , J Solid State Chem 22 (1977) 273

43
 n = 4.33
n = 4.5
n=5

n=4
Systematic study of n= n =  and 5
AnBnO3n+2 = ABOx
electronic conductors 3D perovskite two phases quasi-2D
300
started with a study

semiconducting
of melt-grown metallic

LanTinO3n+2 = LaTiOx

ferroelectric insulator
semiconducting
Temperature (K)
200

metallic along a-axis

F. Lichtenberg et al
100

ferromagnetic
Z. Phys. B 82 (1991) 211
Prog Solid State Chem 29 (2001) 1

T. Williams et al
weak

J Solid State Chem

93 (1991) 534 and 103 (1993) 375
0
O. S. Becker
3.0 3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4 3.5
Dissertation, University of Augsburg (2000)
Ti 3+ x in LaTiOx Ti 4+
3d 1 3d 0 44
 The monoclinic n = 5 titanate La5Ti5O17 = LaTiO3.4 (Ti 3.8+, 3d 0.2 )
Resistivity (T) along a- and Optical reflectivity vs. fre-
b-axis and  ab-plane quency along a- and b-axis

LaTiO3.41 LaTiO3.41
Magnetic susceptibility (T )
parallel to the layers a
 ab-plane
 [10 – 7 emu g – 1 G – 1 ]

n = 5 type LaTiOx
4
x = 3.40 b plasma
edge
2 x = 3.41
x = 3.42 a
b
0
0 100 200 300
T [K]

Highly anisotropic conductor and quasi-1D metal  At T  100 K metal-to-semiconductor

transition / indications for a phase transition  Below T  100 K very small energy gap of
 6 meV along a-axis  Indications for strong electron-phonon coupling  Crystal structure
detemined by single crystal x-ray diffraction  Studies under high pressure indicate a stable
structure up to 18 GPa, a sluggish structural phase transition from 18 to 24 GPa, and near
15 GPa an onset of a dimensional crossover from a quasi-1D to a quasi-2D metal
F. Lichtenberg et al: Prog Solid State Chem 36 (2008) 253 and 29 (2001) 1 and Z Phys B 82 (1991) 211
C. A. Kuntscher et al: Phys Rev 74 (2006) 054105 and B 67 (2003) 035105
I. Loa et al: Phys Rev B 69 (2004) 224105  P. Daniels et al: Acta Cryst C 59 (2003) i15 45
 The n = 5 quasi-1D metal La5Ti5O17 (Ti 3.8+, 3d 0.2 ) – Recent study

24 = TiO6 octahedra (O located at corners, Ti hidden in center)

16
Recent experimental and theoretical / computational study on
2
melt-grown n = 5 type La5Ti5O17.05 = LaTiO3.41 by Z. Wang et al:
16
24 “Spontaneous Structural Distortion and Quasi-One-Dimensional
Quantum Confinement in a Single-Phase Compound”
20
17  Structural investigation by state-of-the-art high-angle annular
3 dark-field (HAADF) and annular bright-field (ABF) transmission
17 electron microscopy (TEM)
20  Valence state study by electron energy-loss spectroscopy (EELS)
b  Density functional theory (DFT) calculations
by using atomic coordinates and structural data obtained from single
c crystal x-ray diffraction by P. Daniels et al , Acta Cryst C 59 (2003) i15

distortion of  investigation of non-linear quantum transport by calculatiing

TiO6 octahedra the (electrical) transmission function of three devised
in percent Pt / La5Ti5O17 / Pt systems along the a- , b- and c-axis

Z. Wang, L. Gu, M. Saito, S. Tsukimoto, M. Tsukada, F. Lichtenberg, Y. Ikuhara, J. G. Bednorz, Adv Mat 25 (2013) 218
Octahedra distortions from Fig. 15 in Prog Solid State Chem 36 (2008) 253
46
 The n = 5 quasi-1D metal La5Ti5O17 (Ti 3.8+, 3d 0.2 ) – Recent results

24 = TiO6 octahedra (O located at

almost only Ti 4+ / 3d 0
16 corners, Ti hidden in center)
2 almost only Ti 3+ / 3d 1
16
almost only Ti 4+ / 3d 0
24
20  Confinement of charge (delocalized 3d electrons) to
17 the central octahedra / center of the layers or slabs
3  Within unit cell metal-insulator-like interfaces which
17 are similar to those in thin film heterostructures !
20
 DFT calculations indicate ferromagnetic ordering / spin-polarized quasi-1D
b electron gas ! Experimentally not observed but the real material might be
close to a state of itinerant ferromagnetism – Or computational artefact ?
c  Assuming that one La sheet surrounding the central Ti is displaced down
by 0.2 Å (see black arrows)  DFT calculations result in quasi-2D
distortion of dispersion of valence bands around Fermi energy  Quasi-1D metallic
TiO6 octahedra behavior is related to the overall structure and not only due to the
in percent presence of Ti – O chains along the a-axis !

Z. Wang, L. Gu, M. Saito, S. Tsukimoto, M. Tsukada, F. Lichtenberg, Y. Ikuhara, J. G. Bednorz, Adv Mat 25 (2013) 218
Octahedra distortions from Fig. 15 in Prog Solid State Chem 36 (2008) 253
47
 The n = 5 quasi-1D metal La5Ti5O17 (Ti 3.8+, 3d 0.2 ) – Recent results
(a) Enlarged HAADF image of the La5Ti5O17
bulk viewed from the a axes. Core-loss
Valence
images of (b) La-M4,5, (c) Ti-L2,3, and (d)
combined La-M4,5 (red) and Ti-L2,3 (green)
edge. The Ti atoms in the unit cell are
numerated as 1 to 5 in (c). (e) The EELS
profile of Ti-L2,3 edge recorded across the sites
labeled in (c) in the unit cell of La5Ti5O17

(a) Total DOS and PDOS plots of

the La, Ti and O atom contributions
for the optimized La5Ti5O17 bulk.
The Ti-occupied majority spin
bands (plotted upward) lie within a
3.05 eV band gap in the minority-
spin band. The Fermi level EF is
aligned to zero. Blowup of the band
structure around EF: (b) majority
spin and (c) minority spin.

48 218
Z. Wang, L. Gu, M. Saito, S. Tsukimoto, M. Tsukada, F. Lichtenberg, Y. Ikuhara, J. G. Bednorz, Adv Mat 25 (2013)
48
 Resistivity (T) of some AnBnO3n+2 = ABOx niobates along a- , b- and c-axis

9 3 1
10 1E+3
10 1E+1
10
Sr0.96Ba0.04NbO3.45 SrNbO3.41 Sr0.9La0.1NbO3.41
2
10
7 4d 0.10 n = 4.5 10
1E+2 4d 0.18 n = 5 0
1E+0
10
4d 0.28 n = 5

1
5 0.006
0,006
10
1E+1
-1
c
10 10
1E-1
a
0
 ( cm)

0.004
0,004 1E+0
10
3
c -2
10 100 200 300 10
1E-2
-1
1E-1
10
1 -3
b
10 c 10
1E-3
-2
1E-2
10 b
b
-1 -4
10 -3 10
1E-4 a
1E-3
10
a
a
-3 -4 -5
10 1E-4
10 10
1E-5
00 100
100 200
200 300
300 0
0 100
100 200
200 300
300 0
0 100
100 200
200 300
300
T (K) T (K) T (K)

 Highly anisotropic conductors  Quasi-1D metallic along a-axis

 Metal-to-semiconductor transition at low T

Prog Solid State Chem 29 (2001) 1

49
 Comprehensive studies on AnBnO3n+2 = ABOx niobates by angle-resolved
photoemision (ARPES) and optical spectroscopy: Example n = 5 type SrNbO3.41
ARPES probes occupied electronic states Inset: Reflectivity R()
and their dispersion E(k), k = k()

Optical conductivity ( – 1 cm – 1)
T = 75 K

along b - axis
along a - axis
Photoemission Intensity

Quasi-1D
metal E ll a- axis
along
a - axis E ll b - axis

Binding energy (eV)

band with dispersion

i.e. E(k)  constant
only along a - axis
Binding energy (eV) Frequency  (cm – 1)

 Metal-to-semiconductor transition at T < 100 K

 High-resolution ARPES at 25 K, resistivity (T ) & optical conductivity  Semiconducting state
with extremely small energy gap   5 meV, the smallest  of all known quasi-1D metals
 Experimental findings appear inconsistent with Peierls or 1D Mott-Hubbard picture

C. A. Kuntscher et al: Phys Rev B 61 (2000) 1876 and 70 (2004) 245123 and Phys Rev Lett 89 (2002) 236403 50
Comprehensive studies on AnBnO3n+2 = ABOx niobates by ARPES, optical spec-
troscopy, resistivity measurements and electronic band structure calculations

n=4 Sr0.8La0.2NbO3.50 4d 0.20 weak quasi-1D metal

n = 4.5 SrNbO3.45 4d 0.10 no energy gap at low T along a -axis

n=5 SrNbO3.41 4d 0.18 quasi-1D metals

n=5 Sr0.9La0.1NbO3.41 4d 0.28 small energy gap at low T along a -axis

b
n=4

Special role of layers which

c
are 5 NbO6 octahedra thick:
23
23 17
n=5

Electrons from the Nb ions

21 3
21 17 located in the central,
23 23 almost undistorted
n=4 n = 4.5 n=5 octahedra contribute most
typical distortions of BO6 octahedra (%) to the metallic character

C. A. Kuntscher et al: Phys Rev B 61 (2000) 1876 & 70 (2004) 245123 and Phys Rev Lett 89 (2002) 236403
F. Lichtenberg et al: Prog Solid State Chem 29 (2001) 1
51
LDA calculations of the
electronic band structure of the
n = 5 quasi-1D metal SrNbO3.41
Good agreement with results from angle-
resolved photoelectron spectroscopy
(ARPES) with respect to lowest band

NbO6 octadedron distortion = a - axis b - axis

(largest Nb – O distance) – (smallest Nb – O distance) C. A. Kuntscher et al.

Phys Rev B
average Nb – O distance 61 (2000) 1876
Nb atoms of least distorted H. Winter et al
23 % octahedra contribute most to the J Phys Cond Matter
17 % electronic density of states 12 (2000) 1735
3% (DOS) at the Fermi energy EF S. C. Abrahams et al
17 % Acta Cryst B
23 %
Quasi-1D features along a - axis 54 (1998) 399
related to octahedra distortions
F. Lichtenberg et al
LDA predicts further bands around EF Prog Solid State Chem
which disperse along a - and b - axis, 29 (2001) 1

c but they are not observed by ARPES:

Subtle structural details ? Electronic
b correlations ? ARPES resolution ? 52
 A special feature of AnBnO3n+2 = ABOx quasi-1D metals
Structural, compositional and electronical
proximity to (anti)ferroelectric insulators !
This distinguishes them from all other known quasi-1D metals such as K0.3MoO3 ,
Li0.9Mo6O17 , NbSe3 , (SN)y and organic conductors like TTF-TCNQ

Examples:
n = 4: ferroelectric SrNbO3.5 (4d 0 )  weak quasi-1D metal Sr0.8La0.2NbO3.5 (4d 0.2 )
n = 5: antiferroelectric SrNb0.8Ti0.2O3.4 (4d 0 )  quasi-1D metal SrNbO3.4 (4d 0.2 )

Intrinsic coexistence of metallic conductivity and large

dielectric polarizability feasible in AnBnO3n+2 systems !?
Usually these both features exclude each other
Intrinsic coexistence of these both features might be useful
for the creation of new high-Tc superconductors

The experimental observations presented on the following slides

support the presence of such an intrinsic coexistence …
53
 Optical conductivity at
T = 300 K along a- and b-
E II a-axis axis of n = 4 ferroelectric
insulator SrNbO3.50 and
n = 4 weak quasi-1D metal
 
Sr0.8La0.2NbO3.50

 = phonon peaks which survive

in the conducting oxide
E II b-axis
= ferroelectric soft mode
(phonon peak associated with
ferroelectric phase transition)

Ferroelectric soft mode

peak occurs also in the
weak quasi-1D metal !

C. A. Kuntscher et al
Phys Rev B 70 (2004) 245123
54
 Is the n = 4 type Sr0.8La0.2NbO3.50 a ferroelectric metal ?

Examples of n = 4 type
crystalline pieces from
as-grown samples
Samples grown under air (left)
or argon (right) at the University
of Augsburg. Photos taken at
the ETH Zurich.

SrNbO3.50 = Sr4Nb4O14 Sr0.8La0.2NbO3.50 = Sr3.2La0.8Nb4O14

Replacing
Nb 5+ / 4d 0 Nb 4.8+ / 4d 0.2
Sr 2+ partly
White transparent Blue-black electrical conductor
high-Tc ferroelectric by La 3+
 Optical spectroscopy, angle-resolved
insulator with Tc = 1615 K photoelectron spectroscopy and
resistivity measurements
C. A. Kuntscher et al  Weakly metallic quasi-1D conductor
Phys Rev B 70 (2004) 245123
 Optical spectroscopy indicates
V. Bobnar et al
Phys Rev B 65 (2002) 155115 presence of ferroelectric soft mode
F. Lichtenberg et al
 Is this a ferroelectric metal ?
Prog Solid State Chem 29 (2001) 1 and 36 (2008) 253
55
 Optical conductivity at
T = 300 K along a- and b-axis
of n = 4 ferroelectric insulator
SrNbO3.50 , n = 4.5 quasi-1D
metal SrNbO3.45 and n = 5
E II a-axis quasi-1D metal SrNbO3.41


    = phonon peaks which survive
in the conducting oxides
E II b-axis = ferroelectric soft mode
(phonon peak associated with
ferroelectric phase transition)

Ferroelectric soft mode

peak occurs also in the
quasi-1D metals !

C. A. Kuntscher et al
Phys Rev B 70 (2004) 245123
56
 Intrinsic high-frequency dielectric permittivity of
the n = 5 quasi-1D metal SrNbO3.41 along c - axis

Large permittivity:  c   100

c

T > 70 K: measurement prevented

by too high conductivity

SrNbO3.41 ( 4d 0.18 ) V. Bobnar et al , Phys Rev B 65 (2002) 155115

T  70 K: Metallic along a - axis

Coexistence of large intrinsic
according to ARPES
high-frequency dielectric
and resistivity (T )
permittivity  c  along c - axis and
C. A. Kuntscher et al , Phys Rev B 70 (2004) 245123
metallic behavior along a - axis !
F. Lichtenberg et al , Prog Solid State Chem 29 (2001) 1

Note: Largest possible intrinsic dielectric permittivity in non-ferroelectrics of the

order of    100 !? P. Lunkenheimer et al , Phys Rev B 66 (2002) 052105
57
 Potential for high-Tc superconductivity among AnBnO3n+2 = ABOx type
conductors from the perspective of so-called excitonic superconductivity

A hypothetical possibility to realize superconductivity at room temperature is given by

the so-called excitonic mechanism of superconductivity (electron-electron mediated):
 Original proposal by W. A. Little for hypothetical quasi-1D organic conductors 1 :
Conducting chains surrounded by electronically polarizable side branches
 In: Novel Superconductivity , Plenum Press (1987) 341
 J de Physique Colloque C3 Supplement No 6 (1983) 819
 Int J Quantum Chemistry (Quantum Chemistry Symposium) 15 (1981) 545
 Scientific American 212 (1965) 21
 Phys Rev 134 (1964) A1416
 Original proposal by V. L. Ginzburg for quasi-2D systems:
Thin metallic sheet surrounded by two dielectric layers
 Sov Phys Uspekhi 72 (1970) 335
The presented results of the studies on La5Ti5O17 = LaTiO3.4 and (Sr,La)NbOx
suggests the following scenario ...

1
In connection with organic conductors we also like to refer to the essay “Approaching an Ambient
Superconductor “ by Robert B. Steele from 2005: www.chemexplore.net/BookP8s.pdf 58
 Potential for high-Tc superconductivity among AnBnO3n+2 = ABOx type
conductors from the perspective of so-called excitonic superconductivity

For example, the types n = 4.5 and n = 5 seem to be interesting from Little‘s and from
Ginzburg‘s point of view:  Quasi-2D crystal structure  Electronically quasi-1D by
B – O chains and delocalized electrons along a - axis  Electronically polarizable units
by electronic band structure, fluctuating valence states of rare earth ions at A site … ?!
b
n=4

Dielectric
c Low BO6 High BO6
distortion distortion
n=5

High Low
Metal
contribution contribution
to electronic to electronic
n=5 DOS DOS
n=4

Dielectric
 Metal-insulator interfaces / heterostructure within unit cell
n = 4.5  ... but electronically quasi-1D concerning Ginzburg‘s concept
 Also quasi-2D metals among AnBnO3n+2 type oxides ?
F. Lichtenberg et al, Prog Solid State Chem 36 (2008) 253  Z. Wang et al, Adv Mat 25 (2013) 218 59
 Searching for high-Tc and room temperature superconductors

1998 – 2007 and 2013 – 2016: Preparation of about 500 electrically conducting
oxides with different chemical composition. So far no indications for high-Tc
superconductivity, however

 Number of possible chemical compositions is practically infinite and only a few

of them have the potential to create superconductivity at room temperature

 Excitonic superconductivity only in a very small region of the compositional

parameter space (W. A. Little, V. L. Ginzburg)

 “Therefore, synthesizing a room-temperature superconductor, one must pay

attention to its structure: the ”distance” between failure and success can be
as small as 0.01 Å in the lattice constant”
Cited from Andrei Mourachkine‘s book “Room-Temperature Superconductivity“
2004, page 292 and 293 (ISBN 1 - 904602 - 27 - 4)

 Still many ideas about interesting and unexplored chemical compositions

60
 Potential for high-Tc superconductivity in oxides
with early transition metals like W, Nb or Ti

Superconducting islands with Tc  90 K on the surface of Na-doped WO3

S. Reich et al , J. Superconductivity 13 (2000) 855

 Strong experimental evidence for high-Tc superconductivity without Cu

 In spite of many efforts the superconducting phase could not be identified and
after a while the research on superconducting Na y WOx was terminated

WO3 (W 6 +, 5d 0 ):
 Antiferroelectric insulator with Tc  1000 K
 Distorted ReO3 type crystal structure – can be considered
as distorted perovskite ABO3 with absent A
 Superconducting Na y WOx (W (6 – z )+, 5d z ) closely related to WO3

 Speculation: Superconducting phase Na y WOx could be of the type AnBnO3n+2

F. Lichtenberg et al , Prog. Solid State Chem. 36 (2008) 253

61
Extended approaches or hypotheses
concerning the search for room
temperature superconductors:

The chemical element Nb (niobium)

62
 The chemical element Nb (niobium) 1/2

The atomic number of the chemical element Nb is 41, i.e. it comprises 41 protons
and 41 electrons per Nb atom. The element Nb displays several special features [1] :
 Among the 81 = 3  3  3  3 stable chemical elements the element Nb is located
at a central position, i.e. if 81 elements are arranged with equal distance in form
of a one-dimensional chain or in form of a two-dimensional 9  9 square lattice,
then element No. 41 is located at the central position
 Nb has only 1 naturally occuring istope
 The atomic number of Nb is 41 which is a prime number
 Among all superconducting chemical elements Nb 41 has the highest
superconducting transition temperature Tc , namely Tc  9 K = - 264 °C,
see e.g. http://hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu/HBase/tables/supcon.html

[1] The tripartition of the chemical elements: Observations, considerations and

hypotheses about the chemical elements and the number 3. Published
since 18 October 2015 in novam-research.com:
www.novam-research.com/resources/Chem-elements-and-number-3.pdf
63
 The chemical element Nb (niobium) 2/2

The special features of Nb which are described on the previous page might
suggest the following hypothesis [1] :

Hypothesis: Superconductivity at room temperature can be achieved by a

special material which contains Nb as crucial chemical element. Of course,
such a material requires another specific features.

As a concrete example we refer to a special class of materials, namely oxides

of the type AnBnO3n+2 = ABOx . As described in this presentation, some of their
specific features suggest that they might have a potential to create room
temperature superconductors and they are also known for B = Nb, see
pages 39 - 61 , especially pages 58 and 59 , as well as the links on page 20

[1] The tripartition of the chemical elements: Observations, considerations and

hypotheses about the chemical elements and the number 3. Published
since 18 October 2015 in novam-research.com:
www.novam-research.com/resources/Chem-elements-and-number-3.pdf
64
Extended approaches or hypotheses
concerning the search for room
temperature superconductors:

The tripartition of the chemical elements

65
The tripartition of the 81 = 3  27 = 3  3  3  3 stable chemical elements 1/4

On the following page we present a tripartition of the 81 stable chemical

elements and on the subsequent pages some associated hypotheses [1].
The tripartition of the chemical elements can be derived in two different
ways [1] , namely

1) by Global Scaling which represents a holistic approach in science

2) by an assumed special role of the number 3

[1] The tripartition of the chemical elements: Observations, considerations and

hypotheses about the chemical elements and the number 3. Published
since 18 October 2015 in novam-research.com:
www.novam-research.com/resources/Chem-elements-and-number-3.pdf
66
The tripartition of the 81 = 3  27 = 3  3  3  3 stable chemical elements 2/4
Group A1 (-) 1, 4 or 7 Group A2 (+) 2, 5 or 8 Group A3 (0) 3, 6 or 9 Digit sum of
atomic number
1 (-) 2 (+) 3 (0) 1 (-) 2 (+) 3 (0) 1 (-) 2 (+) 3 (0)
Only 1
1 1
naturally
occuring

Numbering of the box and element

2

Atomic number of the element

2
isotope
3 3 Nearly 1
naturally
4 4 occuring
isotope
5 5
See Ref. [1]
on previous
6 6
page
7 7 Atomic
number
8 8 is a
prime
9 9 number

10 Bi The atomic numbers of the elements within a single

83 28
group A1, A2, or A3 differ by an integer multiple of 3 67
The tripartition of the 81 = 3  27 = 3  3  3  3 stable chemical elements 3/4

Hypothesis 5a: The 3 groups A1, A2 and A3 which are presented on the previous
page have a physical meaning and originate from the 3 states of an oscillation
which can be called minus, plus, and zero (see Ref. [1] on page 66 )

 Group A1 may be called or considered as the “minus group“ because

it comprises (3  3  3 = 27) - 1 stable elements = 26 stable elements.
Note: The two empty boxes with number 15 and 21 (see previous page ) are not
counted because they represent the unstable elements Tc 43 and Pm 61, respectively

 Group A2 may be called or considered as the “plus group“ because

it comprises (3  3  3 = 27) + 1 stable elements = 28 stable elements

 Group A3 may be called or considered as the “zero group“ because

it comprises 3  3  3 = 27 stable elements

The atomic numbers of any chemical elements which belong exclusively to

group A1 (minus) or group A2 (plus) or group A3 (zero) differ always by 3 k
whereby k is an integer, i.e. k = 1 , 2 , 3 , 4 , …
68
The tripartition of the 81 = 3  27 = 3  3  3  3 stable chemical elements 4/4

Hypothesis 5b: The tripartition of the chemical elements

can be used in various ways to obtain a selection or set
of specific elements which could favor or enable special
physical effects when they are used as components of a
material, system, subsystem, or process. Of course, the
generation of special physical effects requires another
specific features of the corresponding material, system,
subsystem, or process

The hypotheses 7a and 7b on the following two pages

present some specific ways to obtain special selections
or sets of chemical elements ...

69
The tripartition of the 81 = 3  3  3  3 stable chemical elements
1/3
and the search for room temperature superconductors

Hypothesis 7a (see Ref. [1] on page 66 ):

The creation of high-Tc superconductivity, especially at room
temperature, is favored or enabled by a special material that
comprises only or mainly chemical elements from
group A1 (minus) or group A2 (plus) or group A3 (zero), i.e. their
atomic numbers differ always or mainly by 3 k whereby is k an
integer, i.e. k = 1 , 2 , 3 , 4 , … This may be considered as a
scenario which comprises in a pronounced manner the
presence of the number 3

Of course, the creation of superconductivity at room temperature

requires another special features of the material

70
The tripartition of the 81 = 3  3  3  3 stable chemical elements
2/3
and the search for room temperature superconductors

Hypothesis 7b (see Ref. [1] on page 66 ) :

The creation of high-Tc superconductivity, especially at room
temperature, is favored or enabled by a special material that
comprises chemical elements from all three groups, i.e.
at least 1 element belongs to group A1 (minus),
at least 1 element belongs to group A2 (plus), and
at least 1 element belongs to group A3 (zero).
This may be considered as a scenario which comprises in a
pronounced manner the presence of all 3 aspects of an
oscillation, namely minus, plus, and zero

Of course, the creation of superconductivity at room temperature

requires another special features of the material

71
 The tripartition of the 81 = 3  3  3  3 stable chemical elements
3/3
and the search for room temperature superconductors

The hypothesis 7a or 7b can be used to isolate chemical compositions which

might favor or enable the creation of superconductivity at room temperature

Example: Oxides of the type AnBnO3n+2 = ABOx . Some of their specific

features suggest that they might have a potential to create room
temperature superconductors. For more information about oxides of the
type AnBnO3n+2 see pages 20, 36, 37, and 39 - 59 in this presentation. Here
hypothesis 7a can be applied only to group A2 (see page 67 ) because in this
example the considered materials are oxides and O (oxygen) belongs to
group A2

Note: A possible view of the transition temperatures of superconductors and

potential room temperature superconductors from a Global Scaling point of
view is presented on page 88
72
 The tripartition of the 81 = 3  3  3  3 stable chemical elements
1/2
and high-Tc superconductors

Among the presently known superconducting materials the highest superconducting

transition temperatures Tc are achieved by layered oxides which contain copper (Cu),
oxygen (O) and other elements. Examples are

Compound Tc (K)
La1.85Ba0.15CuO4 30
YBa2Cu3O7 –  92
Bi2Sr2Ca2Cu3O10 110 Tc = 138 K = - 135 °C is currently
(Ba,Sr)CuO2 90 - December 2016 - still the
(Sr,Ca)5Cu4O10 70 highest established value (under
ambient atmospheric pressure)
Hg0.8Tl0.2Ba2Ca2Cu3O8.33 138
For references see e.g.
 www.nobelprize.org/nobel_prizes/physics/laureates/1987/bednorz-muller-lecture.pdf
 http://hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu/hbase/solids/hitc.html
 Paper by P. Dai et al. published in Physica C / Superconductivity 243 (1995) 201 – 206
 Pages 9, 10, and 15 in this presentation 73
 The tripartition of the 81 = 3  3  3  3 stable chemical elements
2/2
and high-Tc superconductors

Observation: The number of chemical elements per formula unit of all

Cu-O-based superconductors are predominantly elements from group A2
(see page 67 ) such as O, Cu, Sr, and Ba. Example:

YBa2Cu3O7 –  : 2 × Ba + 3 × Cu + (7 – ) × O = (12 – ) elements from group A2

and 1 × Y = 1 element from group A3 (see page 67 )

We note that the atomic number of the essential element Cu is a prime

number, namely 29

Hypothesis: This is not accidental and related to hypothesis 7a which is

presented on page 70

74
Extended approaches or hypotheses concerning the
search for room temperature superconductors:
Global Scaling - A holistic approach in science

 Introduction into Global Scaling

 Another examples of Fundamental Fractals
 Global Scaling and superconductivity
 A possible view of the transition temperatures
of superconductors
 Global Scaling and the search for
room temperature superconductors
 Global Scaling: Examples of open questions
75
Introduction into Global Scaling

76
 What is Global Scaling ?

Global Scaling represents a holistic approach in science. Global Scaling and its
founder Hartmut Mueller are controversial. The author of this presentation is
convinced that Global Scaling comprises significant insights into the universe,
nature, life, and many physical / scientific topics and invites everybody to an
open-minded and critical consideration. Global Scaling is still in early stages,
there are many open questions and further research is necessary

The following statements about / from Global Scaling are based on

 the author‘s participation in an overall 13 - day course in Global Scaling

in 2005 lectured by Hartmut Mueller nearby Munich in Germany

 a German-language introduction into Global Scaling (1 MB pdf, 25 pages):

www.novam-research.com/resources/Global-Scaling_Einfuehrung_V-2-dot-0_Maerz-2009.pdf

an English version of this introduction (1 MB pdf, 23 pages):

www.novam-research.com/resources/Global-Scaling_Introduction_V-2-dot-0_March-2009.pdf

 information, links and papers which are listed in

www.novam-research.com/global-scaling.php
77
 Global Scaling – How it came about and some keywords

 Global Scaling rests upon the results of very comprehensive

studies of frequency distributions of many different physical,
chemical and biological processes and phenomena such as
radioactive decay and body masses of biological species. Such Simon E. Shnoll
studies were, for example, performed by Prof. Simon E. Shnoll
et al. These studies revealed the existence of formerly
unexplored physical laws and effects

 Global Scaling was developed by Hartmut Mueller Hartmut Mueller

 Some keywords of Global Scaling:

scale invariance  logarithm  fractal  fractal structures  Fundamental Fractal

 continued fractions  (eigen) oscillations  nodes  gaps  resonance 
proton resonance  vacuum resonance  synchronicity  frequency distributions 
probability  compression  decompression  non-linear and fractal course of time

78
 Global Scaling – Some essential statements or hypotheses

 In the universe / nature / vacuum there is an everywhere present background field

in form of oscillations (standing waves) which have a significant influence on
the constitution of all processes, structures and systems in the universe, nature,
and the design of workable and reliable technology

 Particles such as protons and electrons are considered as vacuum resonances,

i.e. they are an oscillation state of the physical vacuum

 In the universe there is a synchronicity in which all particles and matter are
intimately involved. There are indications that this can be revealed, for example,
by noise spectra of electronic components which show at different locations
simultaneously the same fine structure

 Every part of the universe, e.g. an atom, comprises

the entire information of the universe

79
 Global Scaling – Another essential statement or hypothesis

On every physical scale x – such as length, mass, time, frequency, temperature,

amperage, and dimensionless numbers in terms of sets or ratios – there is an universal
distribution of certain positions and zones which have a special meaning and a potential
physical effect, e.g. a high or low resonance or oscillation capability. On the logarithmic
scale this universal distribution is called the Fundamental Fractal (FF), see example
below and examples on pages 81, 83, 85, 86, 88, 90 . If, which and how many of these
positions and zones actually unfold their corresponding effects depends on the details
of the specific system or process and on external conditions.
FF example: Simplified sketch of a section of the Fundamental Temperature Fractal:
Spectrum of discrete values on the so-called level n0 on the logarithmic z - axis and
linear T - axis whereby T is any temperature and Tp = mp c 2 / k = 1.0888  10 13 K, the
so-called proton temperature, an assumed (universal) calibration unit for temperatures:

nodes z ( n0 ): – 28.5 – 27 – 25.5 – 24 – 22.5

2 2 2 2

T
2 2
z = ln
Tp

nodes T ( n0 ): – 269 °C – 253 °C – 181 °C 138 °C 1569 °C 80

Global Scaling - More about the Fundamental Fractal (on the level n0 and n1 )

The Fundamental Fractal is an universal distribution or pattern of certain positions and

zones which have - on every physical scale - a special meaning and a potential effect
x
Consider a logarithmic scale: z = ln
xc
x = physical quantity or dimensionless number (ratio or set) under consideration
xc = calibration unit of the considered physical scale

The positions of so-called nodes and sub-nodes – one of their potential effects is a
high resonance or oscillation capability – are generated by a special continued fraction:
x 3 n0 2
z = ln = + n0 = ± k n1 = ± 3 j k , j = 0, 1, 2, 3 …
xc 2 2
n1 + range of nodes and sub-nodes: n0 ± 1 , n1 ± 1
n2 +
Spectrum of discrete values on nodes z ( n0 ) 3
 z =
logarithmic z - and linear x - axis 2

2 2 2 2

x
z = ln
2 2 2
xc

sub-nodes z ( n1 ) of n1 = 9, 6, 3, – 3, – 6, – 9 81
 Global Scaling – Micellaneous notes

 The continued fraction which is presented on the previous page comprises

a striking presence of the number 3, i.e. Global Scaling implies a marked
presence of the number 3

 Global Scaling phenomena are mainly a feature of complex and open

systems or processes and are less or not at all apparent in “simple and
isolated“ systems or processes

 Global Scaling may allow an access to complex tasks / problems / systems

and may be applied in many areas such as engineering, physics, biology,
(holistic) medicine, architecture, economy, optimization, prognosis …

 A Global Scaling analysis of an existing system or process may lead to a

deepened understanding of its specific parameters, features and behavior

82
 Global Scaling – How it can be applied
Brief description of an approach when Global Scaling is applied with respect to the
consideration or modification of an existing system or the creation of a new system:
If Global Scaling is assumed to be relevant for the corresponding task / process / system, then
consider the positions of its associated physical quantities and numbers in the corresponding
Fundamental Fractal(s) (FF)  Identify the adjustable and non-adjustable quantities or
parameters of the corresponding task / process / system  To obtain a certain desirable
result it is necessary to get an idea, hypothesis or intuition at which positions in the
Fundamental Fractal(s) (FF) the adjustable quantities or parameters have to be placed
Note: For any task or question in which Global Scaling is applied, “conventional“ knowledge,
experiences, results and ideas play an equal role

FF example: Simplified sketch of a section of the Fundamental Number Fractal on

the level n0 (number in terms of set or ratio), i.e. a spectrum of discrete values on
the logarithmic z - axis and linear x - axis (x = number , 1 = assumed calibration unit):

nodes z ( n0 ): 0 1.5 3 4.5 6

2 2 2 2

x
z = ln
2 2
1

nodes x( n0 ): 1 4.48 20.1 90.0 403.4 83

Global Scaling – Another examples of Fundamental Fractals

84
 Global Scaling – A section of the Fundamental Time Fractal on the level n0
t 3 n0
z = ln = n0 = 0 , ± 1 , ± 2 , ± 3 …
p 2
t = time, e.g. elapsed time after the creation of an object or birth of a human being

p = 1 / fp = p / c = 7.01515  10 – 25 s = assumed (universal) calibration unit for the time

fp = proton frequency , p = h / (2  c mp ) = reduced Compton wave length of the proton

Node positions z ( n0 ) or t ( n0 ) in the time fractal mark with high probability important
points of change in the course of a process, independent of its nature
nodes z ( n0 ): 69 70.5 72 73.5 75 76.5
2 2 2 2

2 2 2
z

nodes t ( n0 ): 7.5 34 5 1.9 8.3 37 Highest age

Examples days days months years years years of Stone
Age men
of their
relevance: At the age of 7 days Statistical maxima Based on statistical results
Observed a fertilized egg nests of product failure life insurances distinguish
facts from itself in the uterus between people
our world below and above 37 years 85
Global Scaling - A representation or template of the Fundamental Fractal on level n0 and n1

x 3 2
z = ln = n0 + n0 = ± k n1 = ± 3 j k , j = 0, 1, 2, 3 … so-called nodes: n0 , z(n0) , x(n0)
xc 2 2
n1 + so-called sub-nodes: n1 , z(n1) , x(n1)
n2 +
x = physical quantity or number (ratio or set) under consideration xc = calibration unit of the considered physical scale such as length

For further information see www.novam-research.com/resources/Global-Scaling_Introduction_V-2-dot-0_March-2009.pdf (in English),

www.novam-research.com/resources/Global-Scaling_Einfuehrung_V-2-dot-0_Maerz-2009.pdf (in German) and the previous pages
about Global Scaling in this presentation
3
z(n0+1) – z(n0) = = distance of nodes on
2
numbers
here you

logarithmic z-axis
can put

of z

2 4 5 7 7 5 4 2 2 4 5 7 7 5 4 2 2 4 5 7 7 5 4 2 2 4 5 7 7 5 4 2
3 6 9 9 6 3 3 6 9 9 6 3 3 6 9 9 6 3 3 6 9 9 6 3

2
GB
4 5 7 7 5 4
GB
2 2
GB
4 5 7 7 5 4
GB
2 2
GB
4 5 7 7 5 4
GB
2
z
3 6 9 9 6 3 3 6 9 9 6 3 3 6 9 9 6 3

GB = so-called
= Gap
green area

= node
here you can put numbers of x

3 2
x = xc exp(z) = xc exp n +
2 0 n1
Labelled (ranges of) sub-nodes:
n1 = 3 ( 1) , n1 = -3 ( 1) , n1 = 6 ( 1)
n1 = -6 ( 1) , n1 = 9 , n1 = -9
n  -n

86
 Global Scaling and superconductivity

 A possible view of the transition temperatures

of superconductors

 Global Scaling and the search for room

temperature superconductors

87
 Global Scaling – A section of the Fundamental Temperature Fractal on the level n0
and a possible view of the (distribution of) transition temperatures of superconductors

Tc 3 n0 n0 = 0 , ± 1 , ± 2 , ± 3 … , Tc = transition temperature [ K ] , Tp = mp c 2 / k
z = ln =
Tp 2 = 1.08882  10 13 K = assumed calibration unit for temperatures
Node positions z ( n0 ) or Tc ( n0 ): High probability of tendency change, event attractor
Borders z ( n0 ± 1) or Tc ( n0 ± 1) of nodes: Development limit
nodes z ( n0 ): – 28.5 – 27 – 25.5 – 24 – 22.5
2 2 2 2
Tc
z = ln
2 2
Tp

nodes Tc ( n0 ): 4.6 K 20.5 K 92 K 411 K 1842 K

borders / ranges A B C
of nodes Tc ( n0 ± 1)
56 K 249 K
A: Classical superconductors such as Nb3Ge, typical (max.) Tc‘s about 20 (40) K
B: High-Tc superconductors based on Cu and O such as YBa2Cu3O7 - y , typical Tc‘s
about 100 K. Also reports of indications for Tc  240 K but unverified because
difficult to reproduce: 249 K upper Tc limit of Cu - O - based superconductors ?
C: Tc‘s of next generation superconductors ? Typical Tc‘s about 400 K ? 88
Global Scaling and the search for room temperature superconductors

Hypothesis: Superconductivity at room temperature

can be achieved by a resonance-like interaction
between an everywhere present background field
and a special material with an appropriate crystal
structure and chemical composition

On the following page we present a brief outline of an

useful appearing approach how Global Scaling can
be used to isolate chemical compositions and crystal
structure types which potentially favor the creation
of superconductivity at room temperature ...

89
 Global Scaling and the search for room temperature superconductors
Brief description of an useful appearing approach: Prepare such materials whose readily
accessible material parameters are located at special positions in the Fundamental Fractal (FF),
see example below and examples on pages 80, 81, 83, 85, 86, 88 . For example, this could
mean that some material parameters are placed at positions with a potentially high resonance
or oscillation capability, whereas others are placed at positions with a potentially low resonance
or oscillation capability. Examples of readily accessible material parameters are the number and
mass of atoms in the crystallographic unit cell, the lattice parameters and the chemical
composition. This approach may lead to a significant reduction of the number of useful
appearing chemical compositions. Nevertheless, there are still many possibilities because there
are various conceivable configurations of material parameters in the Fundamental Fractals
which could favor the creation of room temperature superconductivity.
FF example: Simplified sketch of a section of the Fundamental Length Fractal: Spectrum
of discrete values on the level n0 on the logarithmic z - axis and linear d - axis whereby d is
any length and p = h / (2  c mp) = 2.10309  10 – 16 m, the so-called reduced Compton
wave length of the proton, an assumed (universal) calibration unit for lengths:
nodes z ( n0 ): 13.5 15 16.5 18 19.5
2 2 2 2

d
z = ln
p
2 2

nodes d ( n0 ): 0.15 nm 0.69 nm 3.08 nm 13.8 nm 61.9 nm 90

Global Scaling and the search for room temperature superconductors

A tripartition of the chemical elements and associated

hypotheses and observations are presented on pages 66 - 74
and in Ref. [1]. The tripartition of the chemical elements was
first derived by Global Scaling and later also another way of its
derivation was found. The tripartition of the chemical elements
and associated hypotheses can be used to obtain a selection
or set of specific chemical elements which favor or enable
the occurence of superconductivity at room temperature. For
further information see pages 66 - 74 and Ref. [1]

[1] The tripartition of the chemical elements: Observations, considerations and

hypotheses about the chemical elements and the number 3. Published
since 18 October 2015 in novam-research.com:
www.novam-research.com/resources/Chem-elements-and-number-3.pdf
91
Global Scaling and the search for room temperature superconductors

Notes:

 For any task or question in which Global Scaling is

applied, “conventional “ knowledge, experiences,
results and ideas play an equal role

 Global Scaling may also be applied to the search

for room temperature superconductors among
non-oxide materials such as organic conductors
or metal - hydrogen compounds

92
Global Scaling – Examples of open questions

93
 Global Scaling – Examples of open questions

The following examples of open questions should be considered with respect to the
following papers:

[3] www.novam-research.com/resources/Global-Scaling_Introduction_V-2-dot-0_March-2009.pdf
(1 MB pdf, 23 pages)

[4] www.novam-research.com/resources/Global-Scaling_Einfuehrung_V-2-dot-0_Maerz-2009.pdf
(1 MB pdf, 25 pages, in German)

[5] www.ptep-online.com/index_files/2009/PP-17-13.PDF

and another papers and links which are listed in

www.novam-research.com/global-scaling.php

The papers [3] and [4] comprise for the Fundamental Fractal a list of calibration units
which are mainly related to the properties of the proton

94
 Global Scaling – Examples of open questions

 Does the Fundamental Fractal describe the (potential) effects

of an everywhere present background field in an appropriate
way and how universal is it ?

 Are the pesently assumed calibration units appropriate and

how universal are they ?

Appropriate means if the Fundamental Fractal and the

calibration units reflect or describe most appropriately the
observed features of systems and processes in nature, biology,
physics, universe, workable and reliable technology ...

 Is it possible to derive the Fundamental Fractal and the

calibration units from a physical theory such as a specific
type of unified field theory ?

95
 Global Scaling – Examples of open questions
About the calibration units
If the concept of the Fundamental Fractal and associated calibration units is basically
correct, then the calibration units are specified by the underlying physics of the so-called
empty space, vacuum, or ether and its inherent oscillations. Then it can be assumed that
the calibration units are readable from some features of phenomena or physical
appearances in nature and the universe, e.g. from something that is predominant and
stable. The proton is a very stable elementary particle and the mass of the atoms is mainly
given by the mass of the protons (the proton mass is 1836 times greater than that of the
electron). The presently assumed calibration units are mainly quantities which are
associated with the proton. For example, for masses the assumed (universal) calibration
unit is the proton mass mp = 1.67262  10 – 27 kg, for temperatures the assumed (universal)
calibration unit is the so-called proton temperature Tp = mp c 2 / k = 1.0888  10 13 K, and for
lengths the assumed (universal) calibration unit is p = h / (2  c mp) = 2.10309  10 – 16 m
which is the so-called reduced Compton wave length * of the proton.
Why just the reduced Compton wave length of the proton and not
h / (c mp) = 1.32141  10 – 15 m which is the usual Compton wave length of the proton ?
Why the Compton wave length at all and not, for example, the radius or diameter of the
proton ? Recently the electric charge radius of the proton was determined to
8.41  10 – 16 m, see e.g. www.psi.ch/media/proton-size-puzzle-reinforced . In comparison
to masses, a well-defined and useful appearing calibration unit for lengths seems to be
less obvious
* The Compton wave length of a particle with rest mass m corresponds to the wave
length of a photon whose energy is equal to the energy m c2 of the rest mass m 96
 Global Scaling – Examples of open questions
About the calibration unit for angular momentum and spin
The angular momentum L of a rigid body is defined by L = I  whereby I is the
moment of inertia tensor and  the angular velocity of the body. The angular
momentum L of a particle is defined by the vector product L = r  p whereby r is
the position vector of the particle and p = m v is the momentum of the particle with
mass m and velocity v. The intrinsic angular momentum of elementary particles
such as the proton or electron is called spin. The physical unit of the angular
momentum and spin is mass length 2 / time such as kg m 2 / s.
When looking at the calibration units which are presented in Refs. [3] and [4] on
page 94 , then it appears suggestive to obtain a calibration unit for the angular
momentum and spin, Lp , in the following way:
Lp = mp p2 / p = h / 2 = ħ = reduced Planck constant = 1.05457  10 – 34 kg m 2 / s
whereby mp is the proton mass, p = h / (2  c mp) the so-called reduced Compton
wave length of the proton, and p = p / c = h / (2  c 2 mp) the “proton time“.
On the other hand, it is known that the proton is a spin 1/ 2 particle, i.e. its spin Sp is
Sp = ħ / 2 = 5.27286  10 – 35 kg m 2 / s
Is Lp or Sp an appropriate calibration unit for the spin and the angular momentum ?
We suggest to consider Sp as an appropriate calibration unit because it reflects the
actual spin of the proton 97
 Global Scaling – Examples of open questions

About the calibration unit for magnetic moments

The physical unit of the magnetic moment is energy / magnetic flux density such as
J / T whereby 1 J = 1 kg m 2 / s 2 and 1 T (Tesla) = 1 kg A – 1 s – 2 . The latter reflects
the physical unit of the magnetic flux density, namely mass current – 1 time – 2
When looking at the calibration units which are presented in Refs. [3] and [4] on
page 94 , then it appears suggestive to obtain a calibration unit for the magnetic
moment, p , in the following way:
p = Ep / (mp Ip – 1 p – 2 ) = e ħ / mp = 1.01016  10 – 26 J / T
whereby Ep = mp c 2 is the proton energy, mp the proton mass, Ip = e / p the “proton
current“, p = p / c = h / (2  c 2 mp) the “proton time“, and e = 1.602176  10 – 19 A s
the elementary charge.
On the other hand, the experimentally determined magnetic moment
of the proton, µp , is
µp = 1.410607  10 – 26 J / T
Is p or µp an appropriate calibration unit for the magnetic moment ? We suggest to
consider µp as an appropriate calibration unit because it reflects the actual magnetic
moment of the proton
98
 Global Scaling – Examples of open questions

About the calibration unit for magnetic fields

The physical unit of the magnetic field or magnetic flux density is

mass current – 1 time – 2 such as kg A – 1 s – 2 = T (Tesla)

When looking at the calibration units which are presented in Refs. [3] and [4] on
page 94 , then it appears suggestive to obtain a calibration unit for the magnetic
field, bp , in the following way:

bp = mp Ip – 1 p – 2 = mp2 c 2 / (e ħ) = 1.48816  10 16 T

whereby c = 299792458 m / s is the speed of light. The other quantities are defined
on the previous pages.

 Is the quantity bp really an appropriate calibration unit for the magnetic field ?

 Is it possible to obtain another calibration unit for the magnetic field, for example
via µp = 1.410607  10 – 26 J / T which is the experimentally determined
magnetic moment of the proton ?

99
 Global Scaling – Examples of open questions

About the calibration units

The following properties of the proton represent well-defined and experimentally
determined quantities and therefore it seems to be obvious to consider them as well-
defined and useful appearing calibration units for the corresponding physical scale:
 Proton mass: mp = 1.67262  10 – 27 kg
 Electric charge of the proton (elementary charge): e = 1.602176  10 – 19 A s
 Spin (intrinsic angular momentum) of the proton:
Sp = ħ / 2 = 5.27286  10 – 35 J s
 Magnetic moment of the proton: µp = 1.410607  10 – 26 J / T
 Rest mass energy of the proton: Ep = mp c 2 = 1.503276  10 – 10 J
All other calibration units which are presented on the previous pages and in Refs. [3]
and [4] on page 94 appear as “constructed“ values that raise the following questions:
 Are they really appropriate calibration units ? When we consider e.g. The Funda-
mental Time Fractal on page 85 , then the assumed calibration unit for the time, the
“proton time“ p = h / (2  c 2 mp), seems to be appropriate because the corres-
ponding values in the Fundamental Fractal reflect observed facts from our world
 Is there a clear explanation why p and other “constructed“ calibration units are
appropriate ?
 Is there perhaps a way to derive another and useful appearing calibration units from
the above-mentioned, well-defined and experimentally determined quantities ?
100
 Global Scaling – Examples of open questions

The electron as a potential provider of another set of calibration units

On the logarithmic z - axis the basic unit of The Fundamental Fractal repeats when
z is displaced by 3 k / 2 = 1.5 k whereby k = 0 , ± 1 , ± 2 , ± 3 … Thus, if we
neglect the absolute position on the logarithmic z - axis, then a calibration
unit xc is equivalent to the following calibration units:
xc(k) = xc exp(1.5 k) whereby k = 0 , ± 1 , ± 2 , ± 3 …

It is well-known that the proton mass mp is about 1836 times greater than the
electron mass me :
mp = 1836.15 me = e 7.515 me = me exp(1.5  5 + 0.015) !
Thus, if the proton mass mp and the electron mass me are considered as useful
appearing calibration units, then both generate almost the same positions within the
basic unit of The Fundamental Fractal. On the logarithmic z - axis they differ only by
0.015 = 1.5 %, in fact not only for masses but also on other physical scales when
the associated calibration unit is a “constructed“ quantity which comprises a mass
such as the proton mass mp in the numerator or denominator, see previous pages
and Refs. [3] and [4] on page 94 . Is the electron mass me or the proton mass mp
the more appropriate calibration unit ? A detailed study is necessary to answer
this question
101
Closing Words

102
 Closing words

A positive evolution of mankind and earth

does not come about solely by scientific
and technological progress, but requires
rather the development of the qualities
of the heart such as compassion, peace,
dignity, freedom, tolerance …

103
 Further information

 The verification of superconductivity:

Zero resistance and Meissner effect

 Superconductivity: Applications in the area of entirely

novel energy technologies

 Superconductivity and ECE Theory

 The periodic table of the chemical elements

 More about oxides of the type AnBnO3n+2

 About the author

104
 The verification of superconductivity: The first of two essential features

Zero resistance
DC current I through sample: Measurement of voltage drop U at various temperatures

U
Voltage U
I I or
Resistance R
or I < Ic
L
Resistivity 
U
resistance R =
I 0
A
specific resistance or resistivity  = R Tc Temperature T
L
I
current density j = L = length A = cross sectional area
A

Notes: For I > Ic or j > jc the superconductivity disappears

Ic or jc is the so-called critical current or critical current density
For example, for YBa2Cu3O7 – y the critical current density jc
at T = – 196 °C is of the order of 10 6 A / cm 2
105
The verification of superconductivity: The second of two essential features
Meissner effect H

Magnetic moment M
Cooling down of the sample in an external static
magnetic field H: Below Tc superconducting 0
currents emerge in a thin surface layer of the
sample. These currents create a negative
magnetic moment M, i.e. M is antiparallel to H
which is called diamagnetic behavior. This
magnetic moment M generates an associated
magnetic field which is exactly opposite to H Tc Temperature T
so that the total interior field of the sample vanishes.
This so-called Meissner effect results from a peculiar quantum physical state of the
conduction electrons and cannot be explained solely by a DC resistance R = 0
Notes:
 The levitation of a superconductor above a magnet (see pages 1 and 8 ), or vice versa, is due to the fact
that a superconductor is a strong diamagnet. Levitation in static magnetic fields without supply of energy
is possible by a diamagnetic body in a spatially inhomogeneous magnetic field. See, for example,
the paper “Levitation in Physics“ by E. H. Brandt in Science 243 (1989) 349 – 355
 For H > Hc or Hc2 the superconductivity disappears. Hc (for so-called type I superconductors)
or Hc2 (for so-called type II superconductors) is the so-called critical field. For example, for
YBa2Cu3O7 the critical field Hc2 at T = – 196 °C is of the order of 10 Tesla. For comparison:
The earth‘s magnetic field is of the order of 5  10 – 5 Tesla = 0.5 Gauss (1 Tesla = 10 4 Gauss) 106
 Superconductivity – Applications in the
1/2
area of entirely novel energy technologies

Entirely novel energy technologies extract usable energy from an everywhere

present space energy / space-time energy / vacuum energy / ether energy, see
e.g. www.novam-research.com/resources/information-document.pdf

Special configurations of physical fields such as magnetic, electric or gravitational

fields allow an extraction of usable energy from the everywhere present
space energy / space-time energy / vacuum energy / ether energy, see e.g.
www.novam-research.com/resources/information-document.pdf

Magnetic fields are e.g. generated by permanent magnets or electromagnets

but they can also be created by superconductors / superconducting coils /
superconducting magnets. Therefore superconductors – especially room
temperature superconductors – have an application potential in the area
of entirely novel energy technologies. See for example pdf pages 69 – 73 in
section 5.1 of a paper by Prof. C. W. Turtur about the conversion of vacuum
energy into mechanical energy: www.wbabin.net/physics/turtur1e.pdf
107
 Superconductivity – Applications in the
2/2
area of entirely novel energy technologies

Experimental observation: A special geometrical array of permanent

magnets results in an acceleration of a magnetic slide

Example: Concept from W. Thurner:

Circular array of permanant magnets and a slide in form of a

mechanical rotor. The array of permanent magnets is at some
positions interrupted by diamagnets which are realized by
superconductors (superconductors are strong or ideal diamagnets).
In case of an appropriate construction there is a permanent
acceleration of the rotor. For a workable system, which represents
an entirely novel energy or propulsion technology, it is necessary to
develop a control system which limits the acceleration and speed.
For further information see
http://novam-research.com/walter-thurner-cryogenic-magnet-motor.php
or www.novam-research.com/resources/information-document.pdf
108
 Superconductivity and ECE Theory

The hypothesis on page 89 how superconductivity at room temperature

may come about, namely

by a resonance-like interaction between an everywhere present

background field and a special material with an appropriate
crystal structure and chemical composition

seems to be supported by a statement from the so-called ECE Theory

which is possibly related to the hypothesis above:

“… One of the important practical consequences is that a material can

become a superconductor by absorption of the inhomogeneous and
homogeneous currents of ECE space-time …“

Cited from page 97 of the ECE uft paper No. 51 “ECE Generalizations
of the d‘Alembert, Proca and Superconductivity Wave Equations …“
by M. W. Evans: www.aias.us/documents/uft/a51stpaper.pdf

109
 What is the ECE Theory ?

 ECE stands for Einstein, Cartan and Evans and represents an unified field theory
which allows a common description of the electromagnetic, gravitational, weak
and strong nuclear forces

 Developed by Prof. Myron W. Evans by starting from Myron W.

Albert Einstein‘s Theory of General Relativity and the Evans
mathematic research work of the mathematician Elie Cartan

 Some important statements:  Gravitation is related to curvature of space-time

 Electromagnetism is related to torsion of space-time
 Coupling between electromagnetism and gravitation
 Extended electrodynamics with resonance pheno-
mena via so-called spin connection  Possibility
of extracting usable energy from space-time

 Comprehensive information about ECE Theory in the website www.aias.us

 For an introduction into the ECE Theory see an article by H. Eckardt and
L. G. Felker: www.aias.us/documents/eceArticle/ECE-Article_EN.pdf
110
The periodic table of the chemical elements

Image as well as more detailed information:

www.webelements.com
111
 The numerous chemical compositions of AnBnO3n+2 = ABOx

Many ways to modify the physical and structural properties by a huge number of
possible chemical compositions:

 A = Na , Ca , Sr , Ba , La …

 B = Ti , Nb , Ta …

 Several kinds of non-stoichiometric modifications of a certain structure type n with

respect to its ideal composition ABOx with ideal oxygen content x = 3 + 2 / n :
 A1 – a BOx a = deficiency at A site
 AB1 – b Ox b = deficiency at B site
 ABOx – d d = deficiency at O site
 ABOx + e e = excess at O site
 A1 – a BOx – d a = deficiency at A site , d = deficiency at O site

 If there are oxygen deficiencies or at least two different ions at the A (or B) site,
then they can be partially or fully ordered
F. Lichtenberg et al , Prog. Solid State Chem. 36 (2008) 253

112
 The conducting niobates Sr5Nb5O16 and n = 5 type Sr5Nb5O17

Sr5Nb5O16 = SrNbO3.20 Sr5Nb5O17 = SrNbO3.40

Nb 4.4 + / 4d 0.6 Nb 4.8 + / 4d 0.2
small amounts and tiny crystals crystals prepared by
prepared in a H2 / H plasma floating zone melting
crystal structure determined by crystal structure determined by
single crystal x-ray diffraction single crystal x-ray diffraction
structure type AnBnO3n+2 not mentioned structure type n = 5 of AnBnO3n+2
non-centrosymmetric space group centrosymmetric space group
comprehensive studies of physical
physical properties properties  quasi-1D metal where the
not reported / not studied delocalized electrons are embedded in
an environment with a high dielectric
polarizability
electronic band structure calculations
were performed
Schückel and Müller-Buschbaum For references see
Z. Anorg. Allg. Chem. 528 (1985) 91 Prog. Solid State Chem. 36 (2008) 253

113
Sr5Nb5O16 as oxygen-deficient n = 5 type Sr5Nb5O17 with ordered oxygen vacancies

= NbO6 octahedra (O located at the corners, Nb hidden in the center)


= NbO4 (O located at the corners, Nb in the center)
c c
Nb – O polyhedra
distortion in percent
b a

25 Nb 5+ 23
21 Nb 5+ 17
20 Nb 4+ 3
9 Nb 4+ 17
  36 Nb 4+ 23

 
36 Nb 4+ 23
9 Nb 4+ 17
20 Nb 4+ 3
21 Nb 5+ 17
25 Nb 5+ 23
Sr5Nb5O16 = SrNbO3.20 Sr5Nb5O17 = SrNbO3.40
non-centrosymmetric centrosymmetric
Prog. Solid State Chem.
Schückel and Müller-Buschbaum 36 (2008) 253 Abrahams et al.
Z. Anorg. Allg. Chem. 528 (1985) 91 Acta Cryst. B 54 (1998) 399 114
 Sr5Nb5O16 in comparison to the n = 5 type Sr5Nb5O17

Sr5Nb5O16

Can be considered as oxygen-deficient n = 5 type Sr5Nb5O17

with ordered oxygen vacancies

Interesting question: What are its electronic and physical properties ?

Suggested experimental and theoretical research issues:

Experimental challenge:  Synthesis of single phase material

 Preparation of sufficient amounts
to study its physical properties

Theory:  Electronic band structure calculations

Progress in Solid State Chemistry 36 (2008) 253

115
Compounds / compositions related to Sr5Nb5O16 = SrNbO3.20 (Nb 4.4 + / 4d 0.6 )

Melt-grown single phase materials:

 n = 5 type La0.75Ca0.2TiO3.21 (Ti 3.77 + / 3d 0.23 )

 n = ∞ (i.e. 3D perovskite) type LaTiO3.20 (Ti 3.6 + / 3d 0.6 )

can be considered as
 3D perovskite LaTiO3 with oxygen excess, i.e. LaTiO3+y with y = 0.20
 or as La- and Ti-deficient LaTiO3 , i.e. La0.94Ti0.94O3

Progress in Solid State Chemistry 36 (2008) 253 and 29 (2001) 1

116
 Structural (in)stability:
The proximity of layered AnBnO3n+2 = ABOx to cubic pyrochlore

increasing Ln atomic number / decreasing ionic radius of Ln 3+

A = Ln in ATiO3.50 La Ce Pr Nd Pm Sm Eu
Structure type after n = 4 n = 4 n = 4 n = 4 pyrochlore pyrochlore
normal pressure
synthesis
Structure type after n=4 n=4
high pressure
synthesis

decreasing oxygen content x

x in SmTiOx x = 3.50 x = 3.40

Structure type after pyrochlore n=5
normal pressure
synthesis insulating conducting
Structure type after n=4
Prog. Solid State Chem. 36 (2008) 253
high pressure
synthesis ferroeletric
117
 Structural (in)stability:
The proximity of layered AnBnO3n+2 = ABOx to orthorhombic NaWO3.50

decreasing oxygen content x

x in NaWOx x = 3.50 x < 3.50

orthorhombic, ?
centrosymmetric,
Structure type after WO6 octahedra and maybe n = 5
normal pressure synthesis WO4 tetrahedra, for x = 3.40 ?
[W2O7 ] 2– chains
along a-axis (super)conducting ?!
insulating
Structure type after n=4
high pressure synthesis non-centrosymmetric
potentially ferroelectric

Range and Haase , Acta Cryst. C 46 (1990) 317

Okada et al. , Acta Cryst. B 31 (1975) 1200
Lichtenberg et al. , Prog. Solid State Chem. 36 (2008) 253

118
Open question concerning rare earth ions in oxides

Dynamic mixed valence of certain

rare earth ions such as Sm 2+ / Sm 3+
not only in compounds like SmS and
SmO but also in complex oxides ?

119
 About the author
 Born 1962 in Bremen (Germany)
 1983 – 1989: Study of physics at the University of Heidelberg (Germany)
 1989 – 1992: Doctoral thesis in the division of Dr. J. Georg Bednorz at the IBM Zurich Research Labo-
ratory (Switzerland). Doctorate / PhD at the University of Zurich in 1991. Field of work: Synthesis of
oxides – especially in crystalline form via the melt – and study of their physical and structural properties
 1992 – 1997: Research scientist in the nickel metal hydride technology department of Dr. Uwe Koehler
at the research center of the battery company VARTA (Germany). Two months stay as guest scientist in
Tokyo (Japan) at the TOSHIBA Battery Company within a collaboration between VARTA und TOSHIBA.
Field of work: Hydrogen storage alloys and nickel metal hydride batteries
 1997 – 2007: Research scientist in the department of Prof. Dr. Jochen Mannhart at the Institute of Physics
of the University of Augsburg (Germany). Field of work: Setting up a new laboratory and synthesis of oxides
– especially in crystalline form via the melt – and study of their physical and structural properties
 2005: Participation in an 13 - day course in Global Scaling lectured by Hartmut Mueller nearby Munich (Germany)
 2007 – 2010: Freelance work, autonomous occupation with subjects in the area of (an extended or advanced)
physics / science, and creation of several presentations and papers. Creation of the website
www.novam-research.com about entirely novel and environmentally friendly energy technologies
and other fundamentally new developments in science and technology.
 Since 2011: Research scientist in the division of Prof. Dr. Nicola Spaldin at the Department of Materials
of the ETH Zurich (Switzerland): www.theory.mat.ethz.ch/people/person-detail.html?persid=178061
and www.theory.mat.ethz.ch/lab.html . Field of work: Setting up a new laboratory, synthesis of oxides – especially in
crystalline form via the melt – and study of their physical and structural properties, and teaching. A pdf presentation
about the lab for the synthesis and study of oxides and related topics can be downloaded via the following link
(file size at least 34 MB, at least 437 slides or pages): www.theory.mat.ethz.ch/lab/presentation1.pdf
 Miscellaneous: Author / Co-author of about 70 scientific publications which are listed in the following link:
www.novam-research.com/resources/Publications.pdf  Participation in several congresses and meetings about
entirely novel energy technologies in Germany, Switzerland, Austria and Hungary  Participation in a two-day
seminar “The Universal Order in Sacred Geometries“ lectured by Dr. Stephen M. Phillips in England in Nov 2014
 Name & Address: Frank Lichtenberg  Ferdinand-Hodler-Strasse 16  CH – 8049 Zurich  Switzerland
Phone +41 43 539 95 68  www.novam-research.com 120