Geometry-induced current decrowding in superconducting 3D constrictions

RESUMO

Current crowding is a ubiquitous limitation in nanoscale devices, where confinement and sharp features distort current flow, generating localized current-density hotspots and premature failure. In superconductors, this effect suppresses the order parameter and promotes vortex nucleation, reducing the critical current below the intrinsic depairing limit. Here, we demonstrate that 3D shaping of superconducting nanoarchitectures overcomes geometric current crowding through spatial current redistribution, establishing a geometry-induced decrowding effect. Using finite-element modeling based on the time-dependent Ginzburg--Landau equation, we reveal that 3D constrictions exhibit a pronounced and tunable response to moderate in-plane magnetic fields---a functionality absent in planar geometries. This field-controlled geometry enables critical-current modulation and unveils new vortex-dynamics regimes, including a non-reciprocal critical current. Furthermore, curvature and finite thickness fundamentally alter vortex nucleation by enabling apex-mediated entry of single vortex lines, followed by their 3D splitting into two vortex filaments---a mechanism that does not occur in 2D manifolds. Our findings demonstrate 3D geometric engineering as a design paradigm for superconducting nanoarchitectures, offering control over current distribution and vortex dynamics in devices approaching the depairing limit.