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At least 271 records · Page 15
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DOE OSTI2025

Oxygen Vacancies in Niobium Pentoxide as a Source of Two-Level System Losses in Superconducting Niobium

We identify a major source of quantum decoherence in three-dimensional superconducting radio-frequency (SRF) resonators and two-dimensional transmon qubits composed of oxidized niobium: oxygen vacancies in the niobium pentoxide, which drive two-level system (TLS) losses. By probing the effect of sequential in situ vacuum-baking treatments on the rf performance of bulk Nb SRF resonators and on the oxide structure of a representative Nb sample using TOF SIMS, we find a nonmonotonic evolution of cavity quality factor Q0, which correlates with the interplay of Nb2O5 vacancy generation and oxide-thickness reduction. We localize this effect to the oxide itself and present the insignificant role of diffused interstitial oxygen in the underlying Nb by regrowing the oxide via wet oxidation, which reveals a mitigation of aggravated TLS losses. We hypothesize that such vacancies in the pentoxide serve as magnetic impurities and are a source of TLS-driven rf loss.

Bafia, Daniel P. [Fermilab]↗
DOE OSTI2021

Study of Conduction-Cooled Superconducting Quadrupole Magnets Combined with Dipole Correctors for the ILC Main Linac

A superconducting rf (SRF) cryomodule for International Linear Collider(ILC) Main Linac equips focus/steering magnets. The magnets are "superferric" magnets with four superconducting (SC) race track coils conductively cooled from the cryomodule LHe supply pipe. The quadrupole field gradient and dipole field are 40 T/m and 0.1 T, respectively. The magnet length and iron-pole radius are 1 m and 0.045 m, respectively. It is known that dark current is generated at SRF cavities and accelerated through the following linac string. The dark current reaches and heats the SC magnets. It is estimated that the power deposition in the magnet may reach more than a few watts and temperature of the SC coils may locally reach to critical temperature of NbTi. It is important to make the magnet not reach quench with sufficient conduction cooling. We aim to realize the SC magnet which can stably operate under such condition. We plan to develop test coils made of three types of SC materials, NbTi, Nb₃Sn, and MgB₂ and study thermal characteristics and stability . We will develop a short model magnet, based on the test coil results. Here, we will present the magnet design study and the R&D plan.

43 PARTICLE ACCELERATORS↗
DOE OSTI2024

Progress in developing a superconducting accelerator for efficient eBeam and X-ray production

The PIP-II Accelerator is an 800 MeV superconducting Linac in the injection chain of the Fermilab accelerator complex. The LLRF systems for the 125 cavities which include a few normal conducting cavities in the warm front-end section, use a variety of LLRF hardware components and sub-systems that are part of the timing and synchronization system. This includes a master oscillator and phase averaging reference line, a beam pattern generator to enable beam transfer between non-harmonic RF systems and beam loading compensation systems synchronized to a start of beam trigger. The timing signals are based on a 650 MHz clock with manchester encoded event information and data provided over optical fiber. The timing and synchronization systems and their performance parameters will be described here.

43 PARTICLE ACCELERATORS↗
DOE OSTI2024

Timing and Synchronization in the LLRF systems of the Fermilab PIP-II Linac

The PIP-II Accelerator is an 800 MeV superconducting Linac in the injection chain of the Fermilab accelerator complex. The LLRF systems for the 125 cavities which include a few normal conducting cavities in the warm front-end section, use a variety of LLRF hardware components and sub-systems that are part of the timing and synchronization system. This includes a master oscillator and phase averaging reference line, a beam pattern generator to enable beam transfer between non-harmonic RF systems and beam loading compensation systems synchronized to a start of beam trigger. The timing signals are based on a 650 MHz clock with manchester encoded event information and data provided over optical fiber. The timing and synchronization systems and their performance parameters will be described here.

Varghese, Philip↗
DOE OSTI2021

Commissioning of the LCLS-II Prototype HOM Detectors with Tesla-Type Cavities at Fast

Experiments at the Fermilab Accelerator Science and Technology* (FAST) facility detected electron beam-induced high order mode (HOM) signals from Tesla superconducting cavities. This paper describes some of the signal detection hardware used in this experiment, as well as measurements of the HOM signal magnitude versus beam trajectory. These measurements were made both with a single bunch and with a train of 50 bunches at bunch charges from 400 pC/b down to 10 pC/b. The detection hardware is designed for use with the Tesla superconducting cavities of LCLS-II at SLAC** and is based on a prototype already in use at Fermilab. The HOM signal passes through a bandpass filter that is centered on several cavity dipole modes and a zero bias Schottky diode detects its magnitude. Direct comparisons were made between the FNAL chassis and the SLAC prototype for identical beam steering conditions. To support measurements with bunch charges as low as 10 pC, the SLAC detector has RF amplification between the bandpass filter and the diode detector. With this hardware, usable HOM signal measurements are obtained with a single bunch of 10 pC in cryomodule cavities as will be needed for LCLS-II.

43 PARTICLE ACCELERATORS↗
DOE OSTI2022

Quantum metrology of low frequency electromagnetic modes with frequency upconverters

We describe the RF Quantum Upconverter (RQU) and describe its application to quantum metrology of electromagnetic modes between dc and the Very High Frequency band (VHF) (≲300MHz). The RQU uses a Josephson interferometer made up of superconducting loops and Josephson junctions to implement a parametric interaction between a low-frequency electromagnetic mode (between dc and VHF) and a mode in the microwave C Band (~ 5GHz), analogous to the radiation pressure interaction between electromagnetic and mechanical modes in cavity optomechanics. The RQU can operate as a quantum-limited op-amp, or use protocols from optomechanics to implement non-classical measurement protocols equivalent to those used in cavity optomechanics, including back-action evading (BAE) measurements, sideband cooling, and two-mode squeezing. Furthermore, these protocols enable experiments using dc-VHF electromagnetic modes as quantum sensors.

Kuenstner, Stephen E.↗
DOE OSTI2020

Design of Stand-Alone Cryomodule based on Superconducting Quarter-Wave Resonator

Present superconducting accelerators require a central refrigeration system and piping to distribute liquid helium and nitrogen. Stand-alone cryocooler-based systems are of significant interest both to scientific and industrial customers, as they allow applications at facilities where no cryogenic equipment and expertise exists, where it is undesirable to develop additional cryogenic systems, or where a mobile system that can be transported between beamlines or facilities is required. The technical challenge of this approach is to minimize the heat losses to the liquid helium so that commercially available, self-contained cryocoolers are able to handle the thermal load. This paper presents an improved design for a stand-alone quarter-wave resonator (QWR) cryomodule a based on commercially available cryocoolers. This cryomodule has a particular application in the ATLAS intensity upgrade project where it will house a 72.75 MHz QWR for beam energy adjustments to experimental areas, where no helium cryogenic systems exist. The described cryomodule may also be the critical part of a turnkey system with application to material processing, semiconductor manufacturing, food irradiation and homeland security. The development of low heat loss peripheral components reduces cost and widens applicability of the system. We will discuss the cryomodule and RF coupler designs, including numerical thermal and structural analyses.

43 PARTICLE ACCELERATORS↗
DOE OSTI2025

Quantum metrology of low-frequency electromagnetic modes with frequency upconverters

We present the RF Quantum Upconverter (RQU) and describe its application to quantum metrology of electromagnetic modes between dc and the very high frequency band (VHF) ( ≲ 300 MHz). The RQU uses a Josephson interferometer made up of superconducting loops and Josephson junctions to implement a parametric interaction between a low-frequency electromagnetic mode (between dc and VHF) and a mode in the microwave C Band ( ∼ 5 GHz), analogous to the radiation pressure interaction between electromagnetic and mechanical modes in cavity optomechanics. We analyze RQU performance with quantum amplifier theory and show that the RQU can operate as a quantum-limited op-amp in this frequency range. It can also use nonclassical measurement protocols equivalent to those used in cavity optomechanics, including back-action evading (BAE) measurements, sideband cooling, and two-mode squeezing. These protocols enable experiments using dc VHF electromagnetic modes as quantum sensors with sensitivity better than the standard quantum limit (SQL). We demonstrate signal upconversion from low frequencies to the microwave C band using an RQU and show a phase-sensitive gain (extinction ratio) of 46.9 dB , which is a necessary step towards the realization of full BAE. Published by the American Physical Society 2025

Kuenstner, Stephen E. (ORCID:0000000346128846)↗
DOE OSTI2024

Direct measurement of microwave loss in Nb films for superconducting qubits

Niobium films are a key component in modern two-dimensional superconducting qubits, yet their contribution to the total qubit decay rate is not fully understood. The presence of different layers of materials and interfaces makes it difficult to identify the dominant loss channels in present two-dimensional qubit designs. In this paper, we present the study that directly correlates measurements of RF losses in such films to material parameters by investigating a high-power impulse magnetron sputtered (HiPIMS) film atop a three-dimensional niobium superconducting radio frequency (SRF) resonator. By using a 3D SRF structure, we are able to isolate the niobium film loss from other contributions. Our findings indicate that microwave dissipation in the HiPIMS-prepared niobium films, within the quantum regime, resembles that of record-high intrinsic quality factor of bulk niobium SRF cavities, with lifetimes extending into seconds. Microstructure and impurity level of the niobium film do not significantly affect the losses. These results set the scale of microwave losses in niobium films and show that niobium losses do not dominate the observed coherence times in present two-dimensional superconducting qubit designs, instead highlighting the dominant role of the dielectric oxide in limiting the performance. We can also set a bound for when niobium film losses will become a limitation for qubit lifetimes.

Abdisatarov, B.↗
DOE OSTI2023

Commissioning of SRF Cavity Analyzer System

Research and development in Superconducting Radio Frequency (SRF) cavities manufacturing, surface treatment, preparation, and doping techniques for the improvement of cavities performance necessitate reliable cavities’ intrinsic quality factor measurement with accurate and repeatable results. Fermilab Vertical Test Stand facility (VTS) performs ~270 cavities tests per year, including R&D cavities as well as production cavities at each step of their preparation for the placement in accelerator’s cryomodules. Current Fermilab VTS testing system is based on the scalar approach of power measurement, which neglects potential error factors of the RF networks with distributed parameters, hence the assessed measurement errors of such a system might be slightly underestimated. Alternative approach, utilizing a vector measurement (amplitude and phase) of RF signals in the setup with a cavity as a device under test, promises an enhanced accuracy and results traceability. New cavity an alyser system based on this approach (Vector VTS) was developed by D. Frolov et al. and currently undergoes a commissioning process. Basic underlying principles of the system will be presented with the methods of quality factor extraction from S-parameters measurement of multiport cavities and brief error analysis will be discussed. The system architecture will be shown with main components parameters and ensuing testing capabilities. Multiple tests results will be discussed with a cross-check comparison of the results obtained with a conventional testing method. System advantages such as automated calibration process and additional features as a built- in microphonics measurement capability will be presented.

Netepenko, A.↗
DOE OSTI2023

Deployable Cryocooler Based Cryomodule

Superconducting Radio Frequency (SRF) linear accelerators (linacs) have shown tremendous promise in extending the intensity frontier of particle accelerator technology. However, they are large and complex systems, requiring a central refrigeration system and complex piping to distribute liquid helium and nitrogen to the accelerating cavities. In response to these problems, RadiaBeam Technologies, LLC. proposes to develop a small mobile cryomodule that can be safely deployed to its planned field location. The scope of this work is to provide RadiaBeam with the specifications for a complete 650 MHz RF cavity model that can be incorporated into a compact SRF accelerator. Fermilab’s contribution will involve sharing contact resistance measurements, design parameters, and solid models. Design parameters will include the cavity frequency and gradient, length of the linac, number of cryocoolers, etc. This will ensure that the design is useful for practical linacs. A complete cryomodule design is envisioned. Radiabeam will design the cryomodule based on input from Fermilab’s experience on conduction cooling and the needs for a compact SRF accelerator.

43 PARTICLE ACCELERATORS↗
DOE OSTI2026

Plasma processing of SRF cavities at Jefferson Lab: Experiment results and simulation insight

Plasma processing of superconducting radio frequency (SRF) cavities has been an active research effort at Jefferson Lab (JLab) since 2019, aimed at enhancing cavity performance by removing hydrocarbon contaminants and reducing field emission. In this experiment, processing using argon-oxygen and helium-oxygen gas mixtures to find minimum ignition power at different cavity pressure was investigated. Ongoing simulations are contributing to a better understanding of the plasma surface interactions and the fundamental physics behind the process. These simulations, combined with experimental studies, guide the optimization of key parameters such as gas type, RF power, and pressure to ignite plasma using selected higher-order mode (HOM) frequencies. This paper presents experimental data from argon-oxygen and helium-oxygen gas mixture C75 and C100 cavity plasma ignition studies, as well as simulation results for the C100-type cavity based on the COMSOL model previously applied to the C75 cavity.

Accelerator Physics↗
DOE OSTI2024

High Power Test Results For A Cylindrical-Shell SiC Higher-Order-Mode DAMPER

The next high-current Electron Ion Collider (EIC) is a new accelerator to be built at Brookhaven National Laboratory (BNL) in collaboration with Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility (TJNAF). In the EIC Electron Storage Ring (ESR), there will be beam currents up to 2.5 A, which will excite massive Higher-Order-Modes (HOM) power in the 17 single-cell 591 MHz Superconducting Radio Frequency (SRF) cavities. To damp the HOM power in the ESR SRF cavities is a challenge. A room temperature cylindrical shell shape Silicon Carbide (SiC) Beamline HOM Absorber (BLA) was chosen as the baseline design, due to its broadband and high-power capability, and previous demonstrations at other accelerator facilities, albeit at much lower power. Because the EIC BLA HOM power dissipation is significantly greater than the previous applications, it is imperative to carry out high power testing to determine the maximum device performance levels achievable for thermal transport, RF breakdown, and mechanical stress, prior to finalizing the design. A SiC HOM absorber with state-of-the-art geometry size was prototyped to verify shrink-fit technique, test outgassing rate, and high power handling capability. This paper presents the HOM damper’s prototyping and test results.

43 PARTICLE ACCELERATORS↗
DOE OSTI2024

An OVERVIEW of MICROPHONICS in CEBAF and CURRENT MODERATION TECHNIQUES

Superconducting RF (SRF) structures are susceptible to frequency detuning from external vibrations and modal mechanical resonances in the structure. These small disturbances, known as microphonics, require additional RF power in CW accelerating structures since the frequency is constantly shifting. In the Jefferson Lab CEBAF accelerator, time and frequency data of this frequency shift have been recorded for many years, allowing a retrospective analysis of different microphonics-mitigation techniques. Some of these techniques are specific to the design of each CEBAF cryomodule, for example implementing BNNT damping material on the cavity string. Other techniques are universal such as affixing vacuum lines and reinforcing waveguide structures.

Powers, Tom↗
DOE OSTI2022

Effect of successive heat treatment on the performance of superconducting radio frequency niobium cavities

One of the primary sources of radio frequency residual losses leading to lower quality factor is trapped residual magnetic field during the cooldown of superconducting radio frequency cavities. It has been reported that non-uniform recrystallization of niobium cavities after the post fabrication heat treatment leads to higher flux trapping during the cooldown, and hence the lower quality factor. Here, we fabricated two 1.3 GHz single cell cavities from high purity fine grain niobium and processed with successive heat treatments in the range 800-1000 ?C to measure the flux expulsion and flux trapping sensitivity. The results show the improved flux expulsion with increase in heat treatment temperature and flux trapping sensitivity depends on the final surface preparation prior to the rf test.

Khanal, Bashu↗
DOE OSTI2023

Study of Microphonic Effects on the C100 Cryomodule for High Energy Electron Beam Accelerators

The Continuous Electron Beam Accelerator Facility (CEBAF) at Thomas Jefferson National Laboratory (JLab) is a particle accelerator which can accelerate an electron beam to relativistic speeds and apply the beam onto target samples. The C100 superconducting radio frequency (SRF) cavity is the primary accelerating structure of the C100 cryomodule, one of the many cryomodules which compose the CEBAF linear accelerator. SRF cavities are particularly sensitive to internal and external vibrations that can result in a phenomenon called microphonics which degrade the operational stability of a cryomodule. The purpose of this thesis is to investigate the significance of mechanical disturbances on the electromagnetic resonant frequency of a C100 SRF cavity. Knowledge of the mechanical resonance of the cavities and cryomodule sheds light into how these disturbances are most easily realized as deformation which causes radio frequency (RF) detuning. Three studies were conducted: the development and hammer test calibration of a Finite Element Analysis (FEA) model of a C100 cavity, the development and hammer test calibration of an FEA model of a C100 cavity string, and the hammer test of the C100-10R cryomodule at the Cryomodule Test Facility (CMTF). The cavity FEA model was found to accurately predict two modes found in two real cavities in a simply supported configuration. The cavity string FEA model leveraged the calibrated cavity FEA model but was not found to accurately predict the modal behavior of a real cavity string. Even so, the modal behavior of the cavity string inside the C100-10R cryomodule was captured during a hammer test while it was partially assembled. Finally, the C100-10R cryomodule was placed in the CMTF to study RF detuning. The RF detuning spectra during hammer hits and background noise was captured. The results of the hammer testing indicate two strong peaks at low frequencies (9-10 Hz and 22-23 Hz). These two frequencies were found to be nearly coincident to four instances of mechanical resonance found during the hammer testing done on the partially-assembled C100-10R. Because of this, these two modes are believed to contribute to RF detuning of the cryomodule. This test event also included the testing of the effectiveness of a configuration of BNNT canisters designed to act as dampers. While these tests show promising results, the lurking variables render these tests somewhat inconclusive.

Hull, Caleb James↗
DOE OSTI2020

Advanced Accelerator Technology (Final Report)

Superconducting radio-frequency (SRF) acceleration, together with high precision RF field control and high precision beam instrumentation and control, is a key technology for future next generation accelerators. In the past 10 years, significant progress on these technologies has been made jointly at KEK and US laboratories. The research progress summarized here is Cornell University’s contribution to a continued US-Japan collaborative accelerator research effort. The combined objectives of this collaboration were to solve critical technical issues related to SRF acceleration technology, related to low emittance beam generation, and related to reducing the vertical beam size of the ATF2 final focus beam line. These joint efforts significantly advance current accelerator technologies. The specific objective of the Cornell University part of this collaboration was to develop, in close connection with KEK and FNAL, new SRF cavity Nb3Sn thin-film coating technologies for transformational cavity performance. Cornell is a world leader in the synthesis of Nb3Sn for SRF application, and has produced the first-ever next-generation non-niobium (i.e., Nb 3 Sn) prototype SRF accelerator cavities with cryogenic efficiency exceeding that of traditional niobium cavities. These next-generation Nb 3 Sn SRF cavities strongly reduce AC power consumption of SRF based accelerators, and also enable using greatly simplified cryogenic cooling infrastructure, thereby making SRF technology available to a much wider range of accelerator applications. During this project, Cornell has designed and started fabrication of a new Nb 3 Sn coating setup, which will be large enough to coat full-scale (i.e., multi-cell) SRF accelerator cavities. In addition, Cornell University has participated in other collaborative activities at KEK and partner US laboratories.

43 PARTICLE ACCELERATORS↗