Improving flux pinning of MgB2 by carbon nanotube doping and ultrasonication

Authors

Wai Kong Yeoh, The University of Sydney
Jung Ho Kim, University of WollongongFollow
Josip Horvat, University of WollongongFollow
S X. Dou, University of WollongongFollow
Paul G. Munroe, The University of New South Wales

RIS ID

14193

Publication Details

Yeoh, W, Kim, J, Horvat, J, Dou, SX & Munroe, P (2006), Improving flux pinning of MgB2 by carbon nanotube doping and ultrasonication, Superconductor Science and Technology, 19(2), pp. L5-L8.

Abstract

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are an excellent candidate for introducing effective pinning centres and at the same time enhancing the upper critical field of MgB₂. We report on the use of a low intensity ultrasonication as a method of dispersion of CNTs into precursor magnesium and boron powder. The ultrasonication improved homogenous mixing of CNTs with the MgB₂ matrix. Ultrasonication of CNT doped MgB₂ resulted in a significant enhancement in the field dependence of critical current density. The density of the sample increased due to the improved adherence between CNTs and MgB₂ matrix. CNTs donate carbon that is substituted for boron in MgB₂.