Submicrometer Superconducting YBa2Cu3O6+x Particles Made by a Low-Temperature Synthetic Route.
Evidence suggests that superconducting, orthorhombic YBa(2)Cu(3)O(6+x)+ (x greater, similar 0.5) is always produced by oxidation of the oxygen-deficient, tetragonal form (x less, similar 0.5) of this phase (commonly referred to as 123). A synthetic route whereby solution-derived, carbon-free precursors are decomposed at 650 degrees to 700 degrees C in inert atmosphere to yield tetragonal 123 is now available. Appropriate precursors include hydrated oxides derived from the hydrolysis of organometallic solutions and aqueous solution-derived hyponitrites. Subsequent oxidation of the tetragonal phase at 400 degrees C results in submicrometer particles of orthorhombic 123. Superconductivity (T(c) onset approximately 87 K) has been confirmed in these materials by both Meissner effect and specific-heat measurements.
Horowitz
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McLain
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Sleight
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Druliner
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Gai
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Vankavelaar
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Wagner
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Biggs
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Poon
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