Synthesis and Performance Characterization of Mo2BC Bulk Prepared by Spark Plasma Sintering

Abstract:

The high-purity Mo₂BC bulk was synthesized via spark plasma sintering (SPS) technique. Results show that the Mo₂BC bulk prepared by optimized SPS process exhibits exceptional structural homogeneity, with a Vickers hardness of 19 GPa. This considerable mechanical hardness is attributed to the strong covalent bonding network within the Mo₂BC crystal structure. Simultaneously, magnetic and electrical characterization confirms that the Mo₂BC bulk has superconductivity with a transition temperature of 7.8 K and a high upper critical field of 6.3 T. The coexistence of such notable mechanical properties and robust superconducting characteristics in Mo₂BC bulk reveals a promising candidate for advanced applications under extreme conditions. This study not only provides crucial insights into the non-centrosymmetric bulk materials, but also establishes SPS as an efficient route for developing novel superconductors with high hardness.