Bachelor defense by Alexander Meulengracht

Electrical characterization of superconducting components

This bachelor thesis focuses on the electrical characterization of superconducting components, specifically Josephson junctions. Utilizing an MPI automated prober and a custom-developed Python script, resistance measurements of 25 individual Josephson junctions designed with width variation were conducted. The study meticulously examined the relationship between electrode width and conductance, finding a linear dependence between conductance and area with a consistent decrease in extracted electrode height with increasing electrode width. The fabrication method employed, known as the Manhattan crossing technique, allows for precise control over junction dimensions, essential for optimizing the superconducting properties. The research highlighted the impact of post fabrication oxidation on resistance. The findings underscore the importance of precise measurement techniques.