Dynamics of vortex matter in YBCO sub-micron bridges

• Superconducting properties of YBCO nanowires in the width range ξ• Resistive transition: free energy barrier as estimation for nanowire quality.
• I–V characteristics at low voltage: activation energy and vortex lattice melting temperature.
• Magnetoresistence oscillations: entrance of vortex rows and modulation of screening currents.

We have developed a fabrication process that allows us to realize pure YBCO nanowires displaying robust superconductivity at widths w as low as 160 nm. We can modify the process in order to maintain a Au protective layer. This allows us to scale our nanowires even further to widths as low as 50 nm. We have studied how the presence of vortices and the occurrence of phase slips affect the transport properties of nanowires in the width range ξ