Doping-induced isotopic Mg¹¹B₂ bulk superconductor for fusion application

Superconducting wires are widely used for fabricating magnetic coils in fusion reactors. Superconducting magnet system represents a key determinant of the thermal efficiency and the construction/operating costs of such a reactor. In consideration of the stability of ¹¹B against fast neutron irradiation and its lower induced radioactivation properties, MgB₂ superconductor with ¹¹B serving as the boron source is an alternative candidate for use in fusion reactors with a severe high neutron flux environment. In the present work, the glycine-doped Mg¹¹B₂ bulk superconductor was synthesized from isotopic ¹¹B powder to enhance the high field properties. The critical current density was enhanced (10³ A·cm^-2 at 20 K and 5 T) over the entire field in contrast with the sample prepared from natural boron.