| Abstract: | The effect of point defects created by γ‐irradiation and extended defects created by Pb‐ion irradiation on the behavior of the critical current density, Jc in several superconductors have been investigated. We have found a limitation of the role of both types of defects on enhancing Jc. We report an explanation of the effect of γ‐irradiation and Pb‐ion irradiation doses on Jc in these materials. The explanation is based on combining several competing mechanisms of irradiation which we believe to take place mainly in the regions of the grain boundaries. The influences of these mechanisms were found to vary with the irradiation dose level. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim) |
