Magnetic lenses using different MgB2 bulk superconductors

A magnetic lens allows the concentration of magnetic fields using the diamagnetism of superconductors. The important features of the magnetic lens are a tapered inner diameter from which the magnetic flux is extruded and a slit to suppress the circumference current that shields the magnetic flux. This concept was experimentally confirmed through the use of GdBaCuO bulks and a stack of NbTi/Nb/Cu sheets. We refer to this arrangement as a magnetic lens. The Mg-reactive liquid infiltration (Mg-RLI) process developed by Edison SpA is suitable for the production of large and high-density MgB2 bulks. Three MgB2 bulk magnetic lenses, each with a different microstructure, were fabricated following the Mg-RLI process. The properties of the MgB2 magnetic lenses were measured in a cryocooler system as well as in liquid helium. The results confirmed that the MgB2 bulk magnetic lenses could concentrate a magnetic field and that their field concentration properties were greatly affected by the temperature and the external field. In addition, the microstructure of the MgB2 bulk also had an influence on the magnetic properties at different external fields. The results indicated that the MgB2 lens might be utilized as a field amplifier in intermediate fields.