Bi-based superconductors fabricated in high magnetic fields

The microstructure and superconducting properties of Bi-2223 superconductor fabricated in high magnetic fields were investigated. The results shows that the Bi-2212 grains with their c-axis parallel to the magnetic field were formed after the partial-melting and solidification in 8 T magnetic field, and transformed into the Bi-2223 grains with c-axis alignment during the further sintering process at 840°C without magnetic field. The conversion of Bi-2212 grains to Bi-2223 grains has the heredity in grain alignment. The mixed structures of the Bi-2223 and the Bi-2212 grains with their c-axis parallel to the magnetic field are formed in samples sintered at 850-855°C in 10 T magnetic field. When sintered in 10 T below 845°C, a high proportion of Bi-2223 phase is obtained, however no preferred orientation is observed. The Bi-2223 grains with their c-axis parallel to the axial direction of the vertical tube furnace are formed not only on the surface, but also in the center of the sample sintered at 850°C for 120 h in a 15°C/cm temperature gradient without magnetic field. Moreover, the samples sintered in the temperature gradient and in a 10 T magnetic field have a stronger c-axis alignment of Bi-2223 phase.