Technology Commercialization and Partnerships | BSA 08-08: Precursors for High Critical Current, Uniform High T<sub>c</sub> Superconductors

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Categories: advanced materials, energy

BSA 08-08: Precursors for High Critical Current, Uniform High T_c Superconductors

BNL Reference Number: BSA 08-08

Patent Status: U.S. Patent Number 8,216,978 was issued on July 10, 2012

Summary

A representation of the uniform crystal structure of YBa₂Cu₃O₇.

A new method of producing fluorinated precursors for superconducting cuprates increases critical current density and uniformity. A solution of salts of rare earth, alkaline earth, and copper is applied onto a substrate and heated in an atmosphere containing fluorine. This process results in the production of uniform, high quality crystalline superconductors.

Description

Fluorinated precursors of rare earth-alkaline earth metal-cuprate family superconductors result in high-quality crystalline superconductors when prepared by these methods. This method comprises providing a solution of a rare earth salt, an alkaline earth metal salt, and a copper salt; applying that solution to produce a customized, film-covered substrate; and heating the film-covered substrate in an atmosphere containing fluorinated gas to provide the fluorinated precursor. The process does not require the use of trifluoroacetates or physical deposition techniques.

Benefits

These precursors lead to superconducting tapes and wires with very high critical current densities and very uniform normal-state properties. Fluorinated precursors are also less expensive and more convenient than other materials.

Applications and Industries

The films and coatings made from these precursors can be used for the fabrication of superconducting end use products ranging from electrical current transmission and distribution lines to fault current limiters.