Diffusion of high magnetic field in (V1-xCrx)(2)O-3

The penetration of a high magnetic field into a substance that undergoes a metal-insulator phase transition of the first order under Joule heating is discussed. This phenomenon can be used in high-current opening switches. (V 1-xCrx)(2)O-3 is taken as a model substance. An analytical treatment of sta tionary diffusion as well as a numerical analysis are presented. The develo pment of thermomagnetic instabilities of the metal-insulator phase boundary is investigated. It is shown that a switching time of order of few microse conds can be achieved. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.