Abstract
MgB2 bulk samples were synthesized by the solid-reaction process in high magnetic fields. The effect of magnetic fields on the microstructure and superconducting properties of MgB2 tapes has been investigated by using X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscope and magnetic measurements. Under the application of an 8 T magnetic field, the critical transition temperature, T-c, remained unchanged, and the critical current density, J(c) was enhanced by a factor of more than 2 for both temperatures of similar to 5 K and 20 K. The experimental results suggested that the high magnetic field is effective for improving J(c) of MgB2 superconductors. (c) 2006 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.