Effect of ZnO Nano-Oxide Addition on the Superconducting Properties of the (Bi.Pb)2223 Phase

Abstract

The major limitation of Bi-system superconductor applications is the intergrain weak links and weak flux pinning capability producing low critical current density of the Bibased phases. In order to enhance these characteristics and other superconducting properties, effective flux pinning centers are introduced into high temperature superconductors. In this work, different weight percentages of ZnO nano oxide were introduced at the final stage of the Bi1.8Pb0.4Sr2Ca2Cu3O10-y superconductor preparation process. Phase characterization was completed by X-ray diffraction (XRD). Exact constitution of the samples was determined using particle induced X-ray emission (PIXE). Granular and microstructure were investigated using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Electrical resistivity as function of the temperature was carried to evaluate the relative performance of samples, and finally, E-J characteristic curves were obtained at 77K. Using 0.4 ZnO weight percentage, the electrical and granular properties were greatly enhanced, indicating more efficient pinning mechanisms. A critical current density of 949 A/cm2 was obtained which represents more than twice the value obtained for the pure sample (Jc= 445 A/cm2).