SCS002 - Ultra low resistance joints for high temperature superconductors

The next generation of ultra-high field magnets for applications in healthcare and materials characterisation will need us to take advantage of the exceptional properties of high temperature superconducting materials. One of the most challenging design features in these magnets is the requirement for joints between individual lengths of superconducting wire that allow the passage of persistent currents (resistances less than 10-12 Ohms!) in very high magnetic fields. Rare earth barium cuprate (REBCO), in the form of a flexible, multilayered tape called coated conductor, is the most promising high temperature superconductor for a wide range of applications owing to its ability to carry high currents in high magnetic fields, even at temperatures above 4 K. However, although one-off persistent joints have been made, there is no reliable jointing technology that can be applied on the factory floor. This project will involve designing novel processes to form high performance joints for commercial coated conductors, and measuring their performance under real engineering conditions. It will explore a range of different approaches to manufacturing joints, including developing surface preparation techniques prior to assembling joints. There student will become an expert in the advanced techniques needed to correlate joint microstructure with superconducting properties of materials critical for future magnet designs.