Abstract:
Superconductors are characterized by zero electrical resistance, macroscopic quantum coherence, and magnetic flux quantization. Their high sensitivity to weak optical, thermal, magnetic, and particle-induced perturbations has established superconducting devices as an important platform for quantum sensing and ultrasensitive signal detection. This review systematically summarizes the physical mechanisms, representative device types, key advances, and emerging applications of superconducting devices for quantum sensing and detection. It first introduces the fundamental operating principles of superconducting devices and then focuses on the device mechanisms, performance characteristics, and key advances of three representative device classes: superconducting nanowire single photon detectors, superconducting quantum interference devices and superconducting diodes. The key challenges associated with operating temperature, noise suppression, device uniformity, large-scale multiplexed readout, and system integration are further discussed. Finally, future trends toward portable platforms, large-scale arrays, and multifunctional integration are outlined, providing a reference for further research and practical implementation of superconducting quantum sensing and detection technologies.