Preparation and characterization of non-random YBa₂Cu₃O₇-Ag composite

Abstract

Silver addition to the high T_c superconductor, YBa₂Cu₃O₇ (YBCO) is known to improve its mechanical properties and critical current (J_c) characteristics. We have synthesized the superconductor-metal composite YBCO-Ag by an electroless process at room temperature (using sucrose or hydrazine hydrate in an alkaline medium). The latter method produces a non-random coating whereby each grain of YBCO is coated uniformly by silver. The intrinsic high T_c of 90 K of YBCO can be recovered by compaction of the composite and subsequent heat treatment (900°C and 600°C) in oxygen.