A superconducting joint for 2G HTS tapes

An approach of the epitaxial jointing of the GdBa$_{2}$Cu$_{3}$O$_{7-\delta}$-based tapes using the YBa$_{2}$Cu$_{3}$O$_{7-\delta}$ layer is proposed. The structural and electrical characteristics of the formed joint have been investigated. Using the scanning transmission electron microscopy, the cross section of the joined region has been studied, partial melting of the YBa$_{2}$Cu$_{3}$O$_{7-\delta}$ layer has been observed, and the solid-phase diffusion with the formation of the (Gd,Y)Ba$_{2}$Cu$_{3}$O$_{7-\delta}$, Y$_{2}$BaCuO$_{5}$, BaCuO$_{2}$, and CuO phases has been established. It is shown that the current-carrying capability of the superconducting joint is over 30% of the initial tape current.