This investigation will employ the use of a powdered materials (PM) approach to fabricate superconducting cermet composites with superior mechanical properties. Initial work will concentrate on developing processing techniques that yield well bonded cermet composites without degrading the superconductivity of the ceramic phase. The PI's plan to emphasize hot isostatic pressing and liquid phase sintering techniques. Subsequent work will examine the influence of microstructural variables (e.g. contiguity) on properties such as critical current density and toughness. The PM/cermet approach also presents opportunities for developing superior joining techniques, which will be examined.
