Preparation of the First Cu-based Nb$_3$Sn Sample via Bronze Route for Quadrupole Resonator Testing

Abstract

We report the first successful production of a Cu-based Nb$_3$Sn sample specifically designed for Quadrupole Resonator (QPR) testing, representing a significant step toward scalable RF superconducting coatings of Nb$_3$Sn on copper substrates. The sample was fabricated using an optimized electrochemical thermal synthesis (ETS) via the bronze route, incorporating several key advancements: electropolishing of the Cu substrate, electroplating of the bronze precursor layer, a tailored heat treatment at approximately 700 $^\circ$C to promote grain growth and suppress tin-rich impurity phases, and a newly developed chemical etching procedure for effective removal of surface bronze residues and contaminants. These improvements address longstanding challenges in the fabrication of high-quality Cu-based Nb$_3$Sn thin films. Subsequent QPR measurements yielded the peak magnetic field and temperature dependent surface resistance $R_s$, as well as the superconducting transition temperature and quench field. Although the achieved RF performance -- characterized by a minimum $R_s$ of 43.4 n$\Omega$ at 4.5 K and 15 mT -- is not yet optimal, the results clearly demonstrate the feasibility of this approach and its potential for further enhancement through process refinement.