Layers of Stripes (IMAGE) DOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory Caption Copper-oxide layers of LBCO (the lanthanum-barium layers would be between these). 3-D superconductivity occurs when current can flow freely in any direction within and between the copper-oxide layers, while 2-D superconductivity exists when current moves freely only within the layers (not perpendicular). The perpendicular orientations of stripe patterns from one layer to the next may be part of what inhibits movement of current between layers. Credit Brookhaven National Laboratory Usage Restrictions OK for use with stories about this research License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.