OPTIMIZATION OF CRITICAL CURRENTS IN Cu-Nb3Sn MICROCOMPOSITES

The hot powder metallurgical preparation method of Cu-Nb3Sn microcomposite conductors is well advanced and an industrial (large-scale) application appears to be feasible. The addition of reduction components like Al or Mg to the initial Cu and Nb powder mixture enables the development of an ideal filamentary structure. These conductors exhibit critical current carrying capabilities that are comparable to those of conventionally produced A15 superconductors. Further optimization of the superconducting properties of these microcomposites can be achieved by alloying additional elements to the bronze and to the Nb.