Effect of Sintering Conditions on Microstructure and the Superconducting Properties of YBa2Cu3O7 x

Abstract

YBa2Cu3O7-X tapes fabricated from precursor powder, were used to investigate the effect of sintering conditions on the microstructure. The sintering experiments were carried out in oxygen over the temperature range of 915-950ْC. Scanning electron microscopy was used to examine the sintered products. The result indicated a significant increase in densification and grain growth when the tapes were heat treated above 915ْC. The critical current density in the sintered tapes showed deteriotation when the sintering was done at temperatures above 915ْC.