General criterion for intrinsic stabilization of superconducting composites with high resistive matrix

Superconducting composites intended for operation in magnets under time-carrying magnetic fields are designed with a resistive matrix to limit losses caused by induced currents to an acceptable level. As a result, stability criteria commonly used for magnet design are not relevant. A general criterion specially devoted to the intrinsic stability of mixed matrix composites is given in an analytical form. In particular, the presence of a copper shell surrounding the highly resistive multifilamentary zone is shown to enhance the stability against flux jumping significantly. (author)