Project Title:

High-Tc Superconducting Composites for Interconnects to Cryogenic Equipment

04.15-9450
900912
High-Tc Superconducting Composites for Interconnects to Cryogenic Equipment

Abstract:

A vacuum deposition process that promotes crystallographic orientation and high critical
currents in YBa2Cu3O7-x films deposited on ceramic substrates will be developed as
a means of fabricating flexible electrical interconnects to cryogenic equipment in
the space environment. The interconnects will comprise a thin film of high-Jc YBa2Cu3O7-x
deposited onto flexible ceramic tapes and filaments, a buffer layer, a vacuum deposited
oxide overlayer, and a low out-gassing polymer encapsulant. Methods for reducing
both conductive and radiant heat transfer are incorporated into the design. The interconnects
would have significantly lower thermal conductivity, no I2R losses (for DC applications),
and would be of equivalent or lower wight than conventional metal interconnects.
The low thermal conductivity will minimize cryogen (primary liquid helium) loss and
significantly increase the mission life of sensors and other equipment requiring
cryogenic cooling. The principal technical objective of the Phase I program is to
demonstrate the deposition of high-Jc YBa2Cu3O7-x (Jc-106 A/cm2 at 77 K) on flexible
tapes and filaments with an Ic of 20 A at 77 K.
Spaceborne applications include optical sensors and cryogenic equipment (e.g., superconducting
magnets) in scientific and military satellites with long mission life requirements.
Applications also extend to interconnects between cryogenically cooled electronic
packages were I2R heating and thermal conduction must be minimized.
superconductors, interconnects, YBa2Cu3O7-x, thermal conductivity, vacuum coating