About

Overview of Superconductors Research

As the programme leader focused on research into fusion superconductors at the University of Twente, this position gives an excellent overview of the various operations and participants in international technical programs. My responsibilities place me at the forefront of enhancing superconducting materials that are subjected to extreme conditions from mechanical and electromagnetic viewpoint, covering the full scope of low-temperature superconductors (LTS) and high-temperature superconductors (HTS).

As managing director and member of the board of the Foundation SuperACT in Hengelo, The Netherlands, I build a solid organization with continuity, serving the international community in providing commercial testing methods for superconductors on transport properties under realistic operating conditions of applied DC and AC magnetic fields, mechanical and thermal loads (AC losses). Since its founding in 2013, the foundation runs an average yearly turnaround of 500 kEuro with 3.2 permanent staff members. The combined scientific, engineering and managing experience gives a solid background for the consulting and contracting services offered by ARenD LLC.

Key Roles and Collaborations

In my role as a consultant for the ITER Organization and its domestic counterparts, I took charge of addressing the significant issue of Nb3Sn degradation. This critical role highlights my commitment to researching and finding innovative solutions to enhance the efficiency and reliability of superconductors deployed in fusion applications. Collaborating with CAS-ASIPP in Hefei, China, I give guidance to teams on creative solutions and optimization of superconductors, applications and experimental methods, that are state of the art and pivotal for our global efforts in fusion technology.

Contributions and Innovations

With extensive experience in design, testing, analysis, and modeling of superconductors and their applications at the University of Twente, Foundation SuperACT and international collaborations, I have actively engaged in the development of advanced methods and facilities. Innovations generated from this research have borne fruit in the design improvement of superconductors for application into small scale test facilities up to large magnet systems. Notably, various research results and developed facilities have been implemented in prominent international laboratories or large scale projects, affirming the significance of our findings. As an author of over 260 scientific publications in peer-reviewed journals, I continue to contribute to the knowledge base within this demanding field.