Doping-induced isotopic (MgB2)-B-11 bulk superconductor for fusion application

Abstract

Superconducting wires are widely used for fabricating magnetic coils in fusion reactors. Superconducting magnet system represents a key determinant of the thermal efficiency and the construction/operating costs of such a reactor. In consideration of the stability of B-11 against fast neutron irradiation and its lower induced radioactivation properties, MgB2 superconductor with B-11 serving as the boron source is an alternative candidate for use in fusion reactors with a severe high neutron flux environment. In the present work, the glycine-doped (MgB2)-B-11 bulk superconductor was synthesized from isotopic B-11 powder to enhance the high field properties. The critical current density was enhanced (10(3) Acm(-2) at 20 K and 5 T) over the entire field in contrast with the sample prepared from natural boron.