Preparation of Ultra High Purity Niobium for Superconductors

Niobium and some of its alloys exhibit superconductivity. They are of great interest for power generation, propulsion devices, fusion research and electronic devices. Other potential applications include ultrasensitive magnetic sensors, high field magnets for fusion energy, medical equipment, magnetically levitated vehicles, and high-speed computers. Due to increasing use, the demand for ultra high purity niobium is expected to grow significantly in the near future. This research addresses the viability of electromagnetic levitation for producing ultra pure niobium economically and of the purity required.