Superconductors' Super Breakthroughs
I don't pretend to understand how superconductors work, but I'm happy as heck
that we have them, especially when I hear about the
breakthroughs
expected next year. Hypres Inc., a superconductor vendor, has 10 predictions.
First up, cheaper MRI machines. For anyone who ever paid for a back pain or
muscular injury diagnosis, this is great news. Not to mention that the less-privileged
might be able to afford this amazing diagnostic tool.
On a less profound but perhaps no less important note, superconductors may
pave the way for a new class of super-speedy Internet switches, quantum computers
and ultra high-speed workstations.
Superconductors may also drive a new class of efficient propulsion systems
for ships, meaning Larry Ellison and Paul Allen will some day dramatically increase
the gas mileage on their mega-yachts!
Posted by Doug Barney on December 20, 2006