Submicrometer Superconducting YBa 2 Cu 3 O 6+x Particles Made by a Low-Temperature Synthetic Route

• DOI: 10.1126/science.243.4887.66
• Publication Date: 2006-10-05T21:21:28Z
• Authors: H. S. Horowitz; S. J. McLain; A. W. Sleight; J. D. Druliner; P. L. Gai; M. J. VanKavelaar; J. L. Wagner; B. D. Biggs; S. J. Poon
• Keywords: Tetragonal crystal system; Orthorhombic crystal system; Meissner effect

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 less, this phase (commonly referred to as 123). A synthetic route whereby solution-derived, carbon-free precursors are decomposed at 650 degrees 700 C in inert atmosphere yield 123 now available. Appropriate include hydrated oxides derived from hydrolysis organometallic solutions and aqueous solution-derived hyponitrites. Subsequent 400 results submicrometer particles 123. Superconductivity (T(c) onset approximately 87 K) has been confirmed these materials both Meissner effect specific-heat measurements.