Materials Development and Characterization

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The Materials Development and Characterization Group (MD&C) is responsible for research on materials used to make high field magnets. We investigate the physical, mechanical and micro-structural properties of a wide range of materials used in magnets and cryogenic machinery. The group conducts basic applied research, generates engineering design data and develops new materials. This research helps to ensure the safe and efficient operation of our magnets and is necessary for the development of the next generation magnets.

Facilities

Mechanical and Physical Properties Laboratory
We conduct research to determine the mechanical, electrical and physical properties of materials. Distinctive test equipment and methods are used by scientists to evaluate the performance of materials in the extreme environments found in high field magnets. We also provide testing and analysis services to industry, universities and government agencies that require our experience and unique capabilities.

Microanalysis
A contemporary facility is an important asset for our materials scientists who utilize the latest micro-characterization techniques to better understand and improve the micro/nano-structure of materials. Besides providing service that complements the mechanical and physical property research, our scientists conduct basic and applied research as well as play an important role in education outreach and training.

Current Research

High Strength Materials
The strength of materials used in magnets is the biggest limiting factor in the attainment of the highest magnetic fields. Research is ongoing to improve the mechanical strength and durability of materials used in the construction of high field magnets. The research is focused on conductors and structural materials.

Series Connected Hybrid (SCH) Conduit Alloy Research
The conduit in the SCH magnets is required to meet strict specifications with respect to quality and strength. Conduit alloy research projects ensure the reliability of this major structural component in SCH magnets. For more details, see SCH - CICC Fatigue Life Considerations (PDF, 1.6 MB).

ITER Materials
The US-ITER project office has the task of central solenoid superconducting magnet fabrication and is engaged in collaborative research to qualify structural and electrical materials used in the large-scale high field magnets. For an example of conduit alloy research conducted at the Mag Lab for US-ITER, see Mechanical Properties of Modified JK2LB for Nb₃Sn CICC Applications (PDF, 2 MB), presented at the 2009 CEC/ICMC Conference.

SCH and ITER Research
Both magnet projects require the use of specialty alloy 316LN in high cyclic fatigue stress applications. The limited database available prompted the joint research and the generation of the 4 K fatigue data found in Fatigue Properties of Modified 316LN Stainless Steel at 4 K for High Field Cable-in-Conduit Applications (PDF, 352 KB), presented at the 2009 CEC/ICMC Conference.

Collaborations

US-ITER
The International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor is an international project to demonstrate the feasibility of fusion energy. The US project office is headquartered at Oak Ridge National Laboratory and funded by the US-DOE. One component of the project for the ORNL team is to manage the design and construction of large superconducting magnets. The Mag Lab's MD&C group has been called upon to conduct low temperature materials research necessary for the superconducting magnet design and construction.

The US-LHC Accelerator Research Program (LARP)
LARP researchers responsible for the use of high current density superconductors are collaborating with scientists in the MD&C Group to research the thermal expansion characteristics of candidate superconductors in an effort to determine and predict residual stress in the Nb₃Sn superconductors. For more details, see LARP Strand Measurements at NHMFL (PDF, 216 KB).

Florida State University Department of Biological Science
We support FSU faculty member Gregory Erickson and his graduate students in their bio-mechanical research on reptile feeding. MD&C supports their research through consultation on fixture and test design as well as training of graduate students to use MD&C's test equipment for their research.

Versailles Project on Advanced Materials and Standards (VAMAS) and International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC)
The development and standardization of superconductor test methods. Recent collaboration consists of participation in Round Robin Test Programs designed to standardize the test procedures related to high temperature superconductors. For more details, see MD&C Group's Superconductor Characterization Work (PDF, 1.7 MB).

Outreach

MD&C group members work closely with the Center for Integrating Research and Learning to provide mentors for the Research Experiences for Undergraduates and Research Experiences for Teachers programs and the Middle School Mentorship Program.

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For more information on materials characterization, please contact Dr. Ke Han at han@magnet.fsu.edu or (850) 644-6746. For information on scheduling and charges for facilities, please contact Bob Walsh at walsh@magnet.fsu.edu or (850) 644-5088.