Report of Solid State Physics Group

Abstract

The solid state physics group addressed the question what should be done in the future to improve the properties or increase the understanding of the problems in A15 filamentary superconductors. In their deliberations the group sought to avoid simply advocating more basic research in a blanket way or holding out the promise of a mythical new superconductor (T_c>30 K, H_c2>10² T, J_c>10⁸ A/cm², and outstanding mechanical properties) as the solution to today’s practical problems. There was the general perception, however, that recent advances in the basic understanding of the science of A15 superconductors relevant to practical conductors needs to be transmitted to the practical composite community. Moreover, it was likewise evident that, particularly for the newer very fine multifilamentary in situ and powder fabricated composites, new regimes of behavior were being encountered, the physics of which has not been completely elucidated heretofore. Some specific points felt generally worthy of mention both for their own sake and as illustrations of the type of work that would be helpful in the future are outlined below. Logically they divide conveniently into intrinsic properties (e.g., T_c, H_c2, strain dependence, etc.), extrinsic properties (e.g., flux pinning) and areas to watch for developments of possible relevance.