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Applied Superconductivity

Superconductivity is regarded as one of the most astonishing phenomena in the world of science. Superconductors offer great potential for development of new generation materials for power transmission, electrical motors, fault current limiters, magnetic sensors, medical imaging, etc. The research carried out by this large group covers a wide range of projects from materials aspects to theoretical modelling in HTSC and related materials. The research program includes following projects:

ARC Discovery Projects

Current limiting mechanisms in magnesium diboride superconductors
Project ID: DP0770205
Years Funded: 2007-2011
Chief Investigators: S. X. Dou, C. C. Wang
Partner Investigators: J. Driscoll, R. L. Flukiger, H. Kumakura, M. D. Sumption
Project Description:
Numerous important applications have already been identified for MgB2 wire: power transmission cables, fault current limiters, transformers and magnets for motors and generators, as well as MRI. The significant increase in current carrying capacity of one order of magnitude expected to result from the proposed program will enable MgB2 to replace presently existing low-temperature superconductors (LTS) and expensive high-temperature superconductors (HTS) in numerous important applications. MgB2 technology, coupled with renewable energy sources, has the potential to provide a long-term solution to the energy crisis and global warming threat.
 
Fabrication of high quality MgB2 superconductor
Project ID: DP0879843
Years Funded: 2008-2010
Chief Investigators: S. H. Zhou
Project Description:
Superconductors are electrical resistance free materials. They have great potential for power applications. Nowadays, superconductors have been used in applications such as Magnetic Resonance Imaging and other R&D equipment. This project deals with newly discovered MgB2 superconductor. The process outlined in this project will produce MgB2 superconductor with better superconducting properties. The application of MgB2 superconductor will save energy, and enhance the performance of existing electrical devices such as magnet and power line.
 
Giant magnetocaloric materials and room temperature refrigeration
Project ID: DP0879070
Years Funded: 2008-2011
Chief Investigators: S. X. Dou, J. H. Kim, R. Zeng
Partner Investigators: T. H. Johansen, E. Bruck
Project Description:
The objectives of this project are to develop new magnetocaloric materials, study their properties and their potential as components of advanced magnetic refrigeration systems. The outcomes of this project will provide an opportunity for Australian industry to produce magneto-caloric materials and magnetic refrigeration systems with higher quality, to embark on this novel innovation technology in an effective way, and to access the international magnetic refrigeration market. In longer term, the successful outcome of this research could lead to energy savings and an overall reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, as well as contributing to the associated economic and social goals.
 

ARC Linkage Projects

Development of high performance second generation superconductors
Project ID: LP0669456
Years Funded: 2006-2009
Chief Investigators: S. X. Dou, A. V. Pan, D. Q. Shi
Partner Investigators: R. Taylor, J. Barry, T. Yamashita
Industry Partner: Mesaplexx Pty. Ltd.
Project Description:
Robust, high performance high temperature superconductor (HTS) wire underpins a worldwide opportunity to revolutionize the electric power grid, transportation, electronics and many other industries with a new generation of high efficiency, compact, and environmentally friendly electrical equipment. This program combines our expertise in superconductor thin film fabrication and characterization and expertise of a local industrial partner in the development of superconducting wires. The success of the proposed project will bring benefit to local industry and employment, and significantly enhance the international competitiveness in HTS of Australian industry.
 
Magnesium diboride superconductor magnets for applications
Project ID: LP0989352
Years Funded: 2009-2011
Chief Investigators: S. X. Dou, X. L. Wang, C. Cook
Partner Investigators: E. W. Collings, J. Yoo
Industry Partners: Hyper Tech Research Inc, Zenergy Ltd
Project Description:
The proposed development of magnesium diboride magnets is one of the core technologies that underlie applications in magnetic resonance imaging, magnetic separators, and other devices. The proposed international research consortium is in a leading position to explore the potential of these superconductor magnets for various applications. A breakthrough in the current proposal will lead to widespread commercial activities in a number of industry sectors: mineral separation, health, electric power, transportation, water purification, drug delivery, and space/aviation. Application of the proposal's outcomes will lead to enormous energy savings and environmental benefits.
 

ARC Linkage International Projects

Mechanism and enhancement of supercurrent carrying ability in magnesium diboride superconductor
Project ID: LX0882225
Years Funded: 2008-2010
Chief Investigators: X. L. Wang, S. Lee
Project Description:
The newly discovered MgB2 superconductor has great potential to replace the existing conventional superconductors for uses in various medical and industrial applications. This project brings together two world leading groups with complementary expertise to develop a fundamental understanding of the factors controlling MgB2 performance and to find effective ways to significantly improve its supercurrent carrying capabilities for practical applications. The outcome of this project will be of benefit to both countries and will lead to many practical applications such as transformers, rotors, and transmission cables, as well as magnetic resonance imaging without using liquid helium, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and global warming.
  Last reviewed: 23 September, 2009 
 
University of Wollongong
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