Gamma radiation effects on high-temperature superconducting ReBCO tape

Abstract

High-temperature superconducting (HTS) magnets are crucial components in future fusion reactors, subjected to prolonged irradiation and complex mechanical conditions. While the irradiation sensitivity of HTS materials has been extensively studied, limited research has explored the effects of force conditions during irradiation. This study investigated the influence of irradiation on ReBCO tapes. An irradiation experiment was conducted utilizing a Co60 source irradiation device. Superconductor properties were evaluated through the induction method, while microstructure analysis was performed using x-ray diffraction measurements. The results indicate that the critical current initially increases and subsequently decreases, while the critical temperature remains relatively stable. Furthermore, the bending degree during irradiation affects the critical current density, with a decrease in radius corresponding to a first increase and then subsequent decrease in critical current density. The force applied during irradiation exhibits a impact on the superconducting properties, underscoring the importance of considering force conditions in future investigations.