The Role of Sample Preparation Techniques in Assessing Mechanical Damage in YBCO Superconducting Tapes

Abstract

YBa2Cu3O7 (YBCO) is a high-temperature, high-field superconductor with promise for usage in high-field magnets. The superconductor lies within a composite tape that provides mechanical strength and allows for the correct crystal growth direction of the superconductor. High amounts of internal stress can cause these layers to delaminate, hindering the electrical properties of the tape. The aim of this research is to understand how various sample preparation techniques (including slitting and metallographic polishing) impact the delamination tendencies of YBCO. Focus has also been centered on sample preparation for microscopy and other analyses.