Superconducting properties of (Bi,Pb)2Sr2Ca2Cu3Ox (BSCCO-2223) superconductor ceramics prepared by conventional solid-state reaction and co-precipitation methods

Abstract

Abstract The (Bi,Pb)2Sr2Ca2Cu3Ox (BSCCO-2223) samples were prepared by conventional solid-state reaction and co-precipitation methods. The crystal size, cell parameter, and crystal structure were identified from X-ray diffraction (XRD). The peaks drawn by co-precipitation have higher intensities and the width of peaks were narrower compared to the sample prepared by solid-state method. Slight difference in the value of lattice parameters between the samples were also noticeable. Concentration of defects increased the distortion of crystal lattice that cause the changes in these parameters. The electrical properties of the superconductors were investigated by using cryogenic four-point probe and AC susceptibility. The sample prepared by co-precipitation method was able to reach higher critical temperature, TC at 106 K compared to the other sample, TC at 97 K. Meanwhile Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) micrographs for solid-state method sample showed more random grain alignment and porous structures. The microstructures and grain growth results of Bi-2223 were reflected to the heat and temperature applied during sintering process. In short, the research work reveals that co-precipitation method produces better quality of high temperature superconductor compared with solid-state method due to higher homogeneity resulted by chemical reactions.