High-Temperature Superconductors: Industrial Applications

This lecture introduces high-temperature superconductors, focusing on their industrial applications, particularly in power transport and magnetic field generation. The speaker, David Lavalastier, from the National High Magnetic Field Laboratory, explains the fabrication of large superconducting magnets, such as the hybrid magnet, which combines resistive and superconducting technologies. The lecture delves into the properties of Rebco, a key superconducting material, and its role in compact fusion reactors. The challenges of engineering superconducting tapes for high-current applications, thermal management, and chemical stability are discussed. The importance of superconductors in achieving high magnetic fields for fusion reactions is highlighted, emphasizing the superior current density and compactness they offer compared to traditional materials.