Enhanced flux pinning by BaZrO3 nanoparticles in metal-organic deposited YBCO second-generation HTS wire

We have formed BaZrO3 nanoparticles in YBa2Cu3O7−δ second-generation HTS wires through modification of the chemical solution precursor for metal-organic deposition. Transmission-electron microscopy shows the particles to be 10-25 nm in diameter, approximately spherical, and well dispersed through the film. The in-field critical current density is enhanced over a wide angular range compared to undoped wires.