Unshielded applications of high temperature superconducting Quantum interference devices

Macmillan, Gordon (2001) Unshielded applications of high temperature superconducting Quantum interference devices. University of Southampton, Doctoral Thesis.

Record type: Thesis (Doctoral)

Abstract

We have tested the performance of several different SQUID magnetometers in both laboratory and field environments. The performance was compared to that of other magnetic field measurement devices. This thesis describes the principle of operation of the SQUID magnetometer. It also explains some principles behind other types of magnetic field measuring devices. The differences between magnetometer and gradiometer are also explained. Many potential and existing applications for the high temperature SQUID magnetometer are discussed. The report pays particular attention to the applications of deep sea magnetometry, land mine detection and geophysical prospecting. A chapter is devoted to the issue of noise. Both intrinsic sensor noise and external ambient noise are discussed in detail. During the project many pieces of equipment were designed, fabricated and developed. Description is given of the various sensor holders and cryostats that were constructed along with the electrical circuits that were designed to collect and process data. Experimental data confirmed the magnetically shielded specification of the sensors that were supplied. The unshielded performance was measured and compared to the shielded performance. Experiments were also earned out to detect land mines and make geophysical prospecting measurements. The research confirmed the potential of a high temperature SQUID for the application in geophysical prospecting. It was concluded that further research should be conducted to assess the suitability of this technique for future application.

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