Man F. Yan

Process-related problems of YBa2Cu3Ox superconductors

Abstract Ceramic processing of YBa 2 Cu 3 O x -based superconductors and process-related problems are described. Conditions for calcination, sintering and for microstructural development are important considerations for obtaining the superconducting properties. We examine different forming techniques for preparing superconducting components with different sizes, shapes and configurations. We also identify and discuss six problem areas related to (i) the incomplete decomposition of BaCO 3 precursor, (ii) the slow oxidation kinetics of YBa 2 Cu 3 O x ceramics, (iii) the sensitivity to water of the YBa 2 Cu 3 O x phase, (iv) the reactivity of the YBa 2 Cu 3 O x phase with substrates and co-firing materials, (v) the low critical-current density in YBa 2 Cu 3 O x bulk ceramics, and (vi) the low mechanical strength of YBa 2 Cu 3 O x ceramics.