Smart Superconducting Grid

Abstract

Smart superconducting grid is a global network for CO 2 emissions-free renewable energy economy. The grid combines delivery of liquid hydrogen and electrical energy via superconducting pipelines. The paper reviews the development of the grid concept and the efforts in material science and engineering advancing its practical implementation. Original results are presented outlining an activity that targets the challenge of joining sections of pipelines, as well as manufacture of superconducting pipes. The focus is put on testing the quality of superconducting MgB 2 joints and coatings using the magnetic flux visualization technique of magneto-optical imaging.

Nanomaterials for renewable energy economy

“…Main techniques for processing of MgB2 are already suggested and partially tested [8,9,11,13]. There is, however unexpected return to YBCO in recent years.…”

“…To achieve full renewability in electrical energy generation in all countries and extend it to other sectors of energy economy, a unified approach is necessary. Oil consumption per capita (bbl/day per 1000 people) [7][8][9] switching at the same time to renewable generation of energy. The concept of Supergrid is based on the hydrogen cycle and combines simultaneous generation and delivery of electricity and liquid hydrogen as fuel and coolant.…”

Characterization of <inline-formula> <tex-math notation="LaTeX">${YBa}_{2}{Cu}_{3}{O}_{7-\delta}$</tex-math> </inline-formula> Films With Various Porous Structures Grown by Metalorganic Decomposition Route

“…If liquid hydrogen is sent through pipes covered by superconducting material, it would serve two purposes: being fuel for renewable energy applications, and cooling the superconductor. MgB 2 is a suitable material for such applications [9], due to its high j c , low cost and simplicity of synthesis, and, of course, because of the fact that T c = 39 K is well above the boiling temperature of liquid hydrogen (20 K).…”

Magnetic flux channelling in YBa2Cu3O7-δ films grown by a chemical solution deposition technique on vicinal and non-vicinal substrates

“…Advanced superconducting materials are of primary importance for the development of renewable energy economy [1]. Especially attractive is the use of superconducting materials for simultaneous delivery of fuel (liquid hydrogen) and loss-free electricity [2]. The superconducting material YBa 2 Cu 3 O 7-δ (YBCO) could be sprayed in a solution on curved surfaces and subsequently thermally treated to produce superconducting cover on a specially prepared surface of pipes intended to carry liquid hydrogen.…”