A novel processing technique for fabrication of flexible YBa2Cu3O7−x wire

Abstract

A fabrication technique for producing flexible superconductor wire by extrusion of a composite of Ag₂O‐YBa₂ Cu₃ O_7−x is reported. During the course of processing, the superconductive transition of the starting powder is maintained, thus obviating the need for subsequent heat treatment. This nonpoisoning behavior of Ag₂ O is of significant technical importance. Scanning electron fractography reveals a mixed mode fracture behavior of the material and the evidence of ductility. Magnetic measurements on the extruded wires show an onset temperature of 91 K. Resistivity measurements indicate that the electrical resistance of the as‐extruded wire essentially vanishes at liquid‐nitrogen temperature.