Processing and properties of binder-modified large-scale YBCO magnetic shields for ultra-low magnetic field environments

Ultra-sensitive quantum magnetic sensors represent a new paradigm for measuring weak magnetic fields with unprecedented precision. However, the widespread application of this technology is constrained by the challenge of achieving higher magnetic shielding performance. Superconducting magnetic shielding offers exceptional shielding performance, enabling a near-zero magnetic field and low noise environment for quantum precise magnetic measurements. In this study, a systematic investigation was conducted to evaluate on the effects of various binders on the superconducting and mechanical properties of YBa₂Cu₃O_7−δ (YBCO). It is found that samples with 10 wt% polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) addition exhibited promising superconducting properties and strong magnetic shielding capabilities. Then, to scale up the size of superconducting shields, a large-size bulk ceramic plate (150 mm × 150 mm × 10 mm) YBCO superconducting magnetic shield was prepared and its magnetic shielding performance was evaluated based on the London equation. The proposed binder-assisted superconducting shield maintained its magnetic shielding performance while achieving a 57 % increase in compressive strength. The shielding factor reached the order of 10⁶. This work provides insights for scalable fabrication of high-performance superconducting magnetic shield in ultra-low-field magnetic shielding applications.