Enhancing the Sinterability of Chemically-Derived Tl1212 Superconducting Powders Using Nano-Sized MgO as Sintering Aid

Abstract

The superconducting Tl0.8Bi0.2Sr2Ca0.8Y0.2Cu2O7powder prepared from chemical route was mixed with varying amounts of nano-sized MgO powders (x=0 to 0.50 wt. %) to form bulk superconducting composites. XRD results show that the addition of 0.15 wt.% nano-MgO is accompanied by an increase in 1212-phase and the disappearance of SrCO3impurity. SEM investigations revealed more regular-shaped and smaller grains microstructure for MgO added samples in contrast to MgO-free sample which revealed irregular shaped grains. EDS showed homogenous distribution of Mg for all MgO-added samples with the exception of x=0.50 where agglomeration of MgO particles were observed. However, MgO added samples exhibit lower zero-resistance critical temperature, Tc zerothan the MgO-free sample.