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Abstract: Y2Ba4CuMO (Y-2411, where M is a transition metal element) has been recognized as a potential candidate for enhanced flux pinning in Y–Ba–Cu–O (YBCO) bulk superconductors. However, the non-uniform distribution of Y-2411 in the superconducting phase matrix and the presence of a–c micro-cracks in the sample microstructure limit the magnetic field trapping ability of bulk YBCO containing these inclusions. Recent attempts to add Ag to the YBCO matrix have been observed to enhance the microstructural properties of Y-2411 containing materials. In this work we report the fabrication of high performance YBCO composite containing Y-24Nb1 (Y2Ba4CuNbO y ) and metallic Ag. The average value of critical current density, J c, is compared for samples containing different concentrations of Y-24Nb1. The microstructural features of these samples have been compared with a YBCO single grain processed with Y-24Nb1 and metallic Ag. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: We have reported recently the fabrication of high performance, nano-composite Y–Ba–Cu–O (YBCO) bulk superconductors containing nano-sized Y2Ba4CuMO (Y-2411, where M is typically a transition metal element) phase inclusions that contribute effectively to flux pinning. However, these studies have revealed that the field trapping capability of YBCO bulk superconductors containing the Y-2411 phase is limited due to the presence of micro- and macro-cracks in the bulk sample microstructure. Here, we report the fabrication of nano-composite YBCO bulk superconductors containing Ag and W-based Y-2411 (i.e. Y2Ba4CuWO y ) secondary phase inclusions (SPI''s) in an attempt to investigate the influence of Ag content on the formation and propagation of a/b and c- axis micro- and/or macro-cracks in the Y-123 matrix. The crack density for samples containing Ag is observed to be significantly lower than for samples fabricated without Ag. A detailed study of the microstructures and superconducting properties of Ag-doped, nano-composite bulk YBCO is presented. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The development of a practical processing method for the fabrication of high performance large, single grain bulk superconductors is essential for their cost-effective application in a variety of high field engineering devices. We discuss recent developments in the processing of these materials that enable high performance bulk superconductors to be fabricated in a practical way. These include the introduction of nano-scale second phase inclusions to the superconducting phase matrix, the development of a generic seed crystal, the development of practical, batch processing routes for the fabrication of light rare earth superconductors, the processing of complex shaped geometries via controlled multi-seeding and recycling of scrap bulk samples into high performance, single grains. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]