Structurally homogeneous MgB2 superconducting wires through economical wet mixing process

We evaluate the effects of the mixing process between the starting materials on the structural and superconducting properties of carbon-doped MgB2 wires. The critical current density, n-value, amount of MgO, and critical temperature are obviously dependent on the mixing process, while the microstructure, i.e., grain size, is not sensitive. In our study, the wet-mixing process in toluene enables more homogenous mixing between the starting materials, resulting in superior J(c) and n-value. (C) 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.