MAGNETOSTRICTIVE EFFECTS IN SUPERCONDUCTORS

This presentation reviews recently obtained results on high-temperatur e superconductor expansion below the superconducting transition temper ature (T-sn). An original experimental set-up for control of strain ef fects in a magnetic field is described. Special attention is paid to m agnetostriction (MS) in rigid superconductors of different types and c ompositions with respect to distinguished regions pf their phase (BT) diagrams. The dilatometric and structural measurements are compared an d treated on the basis of a developed approach, the main components of MS are estimated, and the pinning-force contribution is discussed in more detail. The study on the samples with structures varied by mechan ical and heat treatment is also reported. (C) 1998 Academic Press Limi ted.