Fundamentals of Material Processing

Abstract

The high-T _c superconductors are complex compounds with four to six constituents. Their crystal structure is anisotropic, leading also to anisotropic physical properties. In order to optimize the materials processing and superconductivity these properties need to be well understood. In detail, a basic knowledge of the crystal structure, of the thermodynamics of the phase diagrams and phase formation, and of the normal and superconducting properties is necessary. In particular, the thermodynamics and kinetics of phase formation in Bi-Sr-Ca-Cu-O silver-clad tapes need to be thoroughly looked at, but it has to be emphasized that not all mechanisms are well understood.