Critical current variations in Bi-2223/Ag tapes using different starting materials

Ag-sheathed tapes of Bi-based superconductors are proving promising materials for high current and magnet applications of HTSC. Long-length conductor-form is their first requisite and high and reliable Jc values decide their ultimate usefulness. This necessitates the investigation of the formation mechanism of the high Tc 2223 phase, particularly in a deformed superconducting grain with Ag in close proximity. Importance of this is also pointed out by the studies on Ag-clad tapes of Bi-2223, processed using a variety of superconducting powders as starting materials