Development of MgB2 Current Distribution Systems for High Energy Particle Colliders

Advanced superconductors are needed in support of the magnets used in accelerators, storage rings, and charged particle beam transport systems. MgB2, an emerging superconductor material, offers the possibility of fabricating long-length multifilamentary strands and cables from inexpensive starting materials. This project will develop improved MgB2 superconductors with high self-field critical current density at high operating temperatures. The current density of the MgB2 superconductors will be improved by pressure assisted wire processing, by increasing the superconductor fraction of the multifilament strand, and by introducing nano-sized additives for increased flux pinning. To improve mechanical properties, new strand geometries will be developed to increase the irreversible strain limit of the wire. Small-scale prototype MgB2 cables will be fabricated and characterized to determine the effects of cabling on properties. Commercial Applications and other Benefits as described by the awardee: In addition to the application to DOE accelerators and related facilities, an improved MgB2 semiconductor should find use in such commercial applications as MRI systems, fault current limiters, power utility transformers, generators, and motors.