Demonstration of competitiveness of Ni-reinforced HTS tapes based on bismuth cuprate compounds

The standard manufacturing processes for Bi2223 superconducting tapes (“powder-in-tube” or PIT), in which the superconducting ceramic is surrounded by a silver (Ag) sheath make this type of HTS wires rather expensive and hinder a widespread implementation of the technology. The present project aims at replacing a part of the Ag with nickel (Ni). This could be a breakthrough that has the potential of lowering the manufacturing costs of HTS wires to a level enabling their rapid penetration into the market. Additionally, the higher mechanical strength of Ni would be an important advantage for handling during manufacturing of cables.