Key Considerations for Efficient Seeding and Seed Selection in Single-Direction Melt Growth

Abstract

Single Direction Melt Growth (SDMG) is a new promising method for the preparation of single-domain REBCO/Ag bulks, however, some key considerations need to be taken into account; given that the seeding mechanism and practical seed options have not yet been studied in detail. Based on the observation in the trapped field maps of SDMG-grown bulks on the seeded side, a seeding mechanism is proposed. The required difference in peritectic temperature between the seed and grown bulk was studied. The optimal, practical and minimal acceptable difference in peritectic temperature were determined based on DSC data and a series of growth experiments. The obtained data provide a further understanding of the seeding mechanism during SDMG and practical options for seeding respective REBCO/Ag systems bulks.