Combined breakdown of a dielectric nanolayer to form a Josephson bridge

Abstract

The electrical breakdown of a dielectric nanolayer between film electrodes under the combined action of direct current and capacitor discharge current makes it possible to form Josephson bridges with a reproducible resistance exceeding 1 Ω. A new feature of the formation of a bridge during the electrical breakdown, which is preceded by a series of preliminary breakdowns (auto breakdowns) of a dielectric nanolayer, has been discovered. The mechanism of the process and the role of the cathode film's thickness in forming the bridge are discussed.