Microsoft Explores High-Temperature Superconductors For Data Centers
Microsoft said in a blog published today it is researching high-temperature superconductors (HTS) to build more efficient, compact data centers and strengthen electrical grids. Microsoft-funded tests with Massachusetts-based VEIR showed HTS cables could deliver equivalent power with about a 10× reduction in cable dimension and weight; challenges include liquid-nitrogen cooling, rare-earth tape supply concentrated in China, and scaling manufacturing for affordability.
Key Points
- 1Demonstrates HTS cables deliver equivalent power with about 10× smaller dimension and weight
- 2Highlights supply and technical barriers: cooling with liquid nitrogen and rare-earth tape supply concentrated in China
- 3Enables smaller data center footprints and narrower transmission corridors, reducing construction cost and siting delays
Scoring Rationale
High potential industry impact and credible sourcing, but limited by early-stage demonstration and significant supply-chain and cooling challenges.
Sources
Public references used for this report.
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