40
A
Method to Increase Current Density in a Mono Element Internal Tin Process
Superconductor Utilizing Zirconium Oxide to Refine the Grain Size--Supergenics,
1233 Tree Bay Lane, Sarasota, FL 34242;
941-349-0930
Mr.
Bruce Zeitlin, Principal Investigator, brucezeitlin@home.com
Mr.
Bruce Zeitlin, Business Official, brucezeitlin@home.com
DOE
Grant No. DE-FG02-01ER83331
Amount:
$99,584
Magnets
for the next generation of high energy physics accelerators require higher
superconductor performance to enable magnetic fields up to 15T. The
superconductors must also be cost effective so that the magnets, and hence the
accelerators, will be economically viable. This project will use zirconium
oxide, ZrO2, to increase the inherent current density of Nb3Sn
superconductor material. The Nb3Sn
superconductor will be produced initially in small-scale billets and then in
larger scale billets, incorporating niobium alloyed with zirconium and the
appropriate amount of oxygen. The
resulting ZrO2 will be used to refine the grains of Nb3Sn, thereby
increasing the current density toward the goal of 3000 Amps/mm2 .
In Phase I, an alloy of niobium zirconium, with an appropriate amount of
oxygen, will be prepared and used in a multiple extrusion billet designed to
produce approximately 1500 filaments in an Nb3Sn internal tin
superconductor. The conductor will
be processed and heat treated in order to optimize the grain refining properties
of the ZrO2. The critical current density will be measured to determine
effectiveness and aid in design of Phase II conductors.
Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by awardee: Lower cost superconductors should reduce the cost of MRI machines and expand the range of applications for MRI, a billion dollar industry. Their use at higher temperatures would allow the use of helium-free devices, making MRI technology more available to the Third World and remotes sites. Other applications should exist in the utility sector.