Strain-Induced Superconductivity Enhancement in Co-Doped BaFe₂As₂ via Argon Ion Implantation: Evidence from Electrical and Magnetic Measurements

Superconductors (R=0) are excellent electrical conductors with useful magnetic properties. This has allowed many useful applications (like high-current-carrying superconducting (SC) wires) for decades. Iron-based superconductors—especially iron pnictides and chalcogenides—have recently generated attention. On one hand, they can be SC up to a high superconducting critical temperature (Tc) of 58 K in spite of the high fraction of magnetic ions (Fe), and on the other hand, they have potential as wires for high-field SC magnets. However, further enhancement of Tc remains a key research objective for practical applications.