Changes in mechanical and structural properties of Bi-2212 added MgB2 superconductors

Abstract

In the present study, we investigate the effects of Bi2Sr2Ca1Cu2O8+kappa (Bi-2212) addition on structural and mechanical properties of bulk MgB2 obtained by hot-press method by means of X-ray diffraction, the Scanning Electron Microscopy and Vickers microhardness measurements. The amount of Bi-2212 was varied between 0 and 10 wt% (0, 2, 4, 6, 8 and 10 wt%) of the total MgB2. All samples were prepared by using elemental magnesium (Mg) powder, amorphous nano boron (B) powder and Bi-2212 powder which are produced by hot-press method. As a result of the hot-press process, the compact pellet samples were manufactured. The microhardness results were analyzed by Meyer's law, Proportional Sample Resistance Model, Elastic-Plastic Deformation Model, Hays Kendall Approach, and Indentation Induced Cracking (IIC) Model. IIC model was identified as the most appropriate model for samples exhibiting the reverse indentation size effect behavior.