Magnetic Field Trapping in MgB2 Bulks and Inserts

In order to realize superconductive permanent magnets to be used in power applications like the magnetic levitation or electrical motors, we have studied the magnetic field trapping capability of MgB2 discs of different shapes, at temperatures >10 K. In particular we have compared MgB2 bulk discs with MgB2 Superconductive Inserts in Metallic Substrates (SIMS) of diameters of 70 mm. Both superconductive devices have been produced by the Reactive Mg Liquid Infiltration (Mg-RLI) process. The magnetization was performed by the application and removal of an external magnetic field up to 2 T, produced by a superconducting magnet, or by Field Cooling of the superconductive devices nearby NdFeB permanent magnets. The SIMS devices showed a higher stability of the trapped fields with respect to the bulk discs. Typical trapped fields, measured at 1 mm from the surface of the device, are of the order of 1 T. The density distribution of the supercurrents has been estimated by measuring the trapped field at various temperatures up to T-c and performing magnetic levitation forces measurements.