Ti Redistribution in Multifilamentary Nb/Cu-Sn Composites

Abstract

Multifilamentary bronze-processed Nb3Sn-based composites have been studied by the methods of TEM and SEM. Ti as a doping element required for an enhancement of superconducting characteristics, especially in high magnetic fields, was inserted either in a bronze matrix, or in Nb filaments of a composite. It has been found that Ti diffuses into the growing Nb3Sn layer in both cases, and affects positively its structure and superconducting characteristics of a composite as a whole, especially in case of the doped matrix. When Ti is added to Nb filaments, it forms fine particles of intermetallic compounds with Sn in the nanocrystalline diffusion layer. When these particles are formed, grain boundaries of the diffusion Nb3Sn layer purify from segregations, and grains in the vicinity of these particles coarsen, which negatively affects the current-carrying capacity of a composite. That’s why an optimal amount of Ti in Nb should be chosen, when Ti mainly dissolves in the Nb3Sn phase increasing its superconducting properties and not deteriorating its grain structure.