Magnetic levitation force measurement on HTSC ceramic/thermoplastic polymer composites

Composite samples of YBa2Cu3O7−x (Y-123) and linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE) are prepared using Y-123 as filler. An experimental study of magnetic levitation force using a simple, inexpensive electronic balance measurement technique is presented. The repulsive force versus distance or magnetic field is also measured and this measurements show strong hysteretic behavior. This behavior is similar to the sintered superconductor ceramics and is consistent with the hysteresis in magnetization of superconductor. The volume fraction dependence and sample thickness dependence of the levitation force at fixed distance or field is also studied. Results suggest that these composite materials are most suitable for levitation applications. They are very strong which is needed to withstand high rate spinning. They are also very flexible in processing techniques and can be easily reshaped.