Insulation Materials and Methods for Bi2212 Magnets

NbTi and Nb3Sn, the primary materials currently used for the high field magnets in high energy physics research, are limited to magnetic field generation of about 10.5 T and 20 T respectively. In order to generate magnetic fields greater than 20 T, a new high field conductor, such as Bi2212, is needed. However, Bi2212 is a highly reactive compound and must be heat treated in oxygen at temperatures in the range of 890 degrees C. Currently used insulating materials tend to react with silver and Bi2212 at these temperatures. The reaction is manifest as leakage, which degrades the performance of the magnet. This project will develop an improved insulating material and method for manufacturing Bi2212 magnets. In particular, a method for insulating Bi2212 wire with high alumina ceramic fibers will be developed, and the process conditions that optimize manufacturing magnets from this insulated conductor will be determined. Commercial Applications and other Benefits as described by the awardee: In addition to the application to accelerator magnets for high energy physics, the technology should find use in high-field nuclear magnetic resonance systems for imaging complex organic compounds and biological materials