Influence of the proximity effect on the conductance characteristics of superconducting point-contact junctions: Basic assumptions

Abstract

In this paper an analysis of point-contact junctions (PCJ) with nonhomogeneous base electrodes is undertaken. Assuming that the nonhomogeneity can be modeled as a weakly coupled normal-metal--superconductor bilayer, a simple expression for the current and the conductance for the PCJ is obtained. The model uses the McMillan approach to the proximity effect to evaluate the behavior of such a base electrode. Systematic outcomes of the model and comparison with experimental results on conventional superconductors are presented.