Strong Pinning in Thick YBa2Cu3O7 Layers Mediated by Catalysis of a New Long-Period Metastable Cuprate Phase
Catalysts are widely utilized to promote reactions in liquid and gaseous phases but are rarely encountered in solid state synthesis. Here we use catalytically active (001) ceria buffers to modify the structure of the epitaxial high temperature superconductor YBa{sub 2}Cu{sub 3}O{sub 7}. The modification is achieved by catalytically-assisted synthesis of a previously unknown metastable phase. The new phase, a long-period (3.5 nm) perovskite, intercalates into the YBa{sub 2}Cu{sub 3}O{sub 7} matrix without negatively affecting the critical temperature of the film. Analysis of electron microscopy and synchrotron x-ray diffraction data allow identification of the phase as a long-period YBa{sub 2}Cu{sub 3}O{sub 7} derivative formed through short-range cation displacement. The 0.8 {micro}m thick films exhibit strong enhancement of the critical current density, reaching a maximum of 4.2 MA/cm{sup 2} at 77 K. The result emphasizes the critical role of catalysis for synthesis of novel complex materials.
- Research Organization:
- Brookhaven National Lab. (BNL), Upton, NY (United States)
- Sponsoring Organization:
- DOE - OFFICE OF SCIENCE
- DOE Contract Number:
- DE-AC02-98CH10886
- OSTI ID:
- 1025430
- Report Number(s):
- BNL-95024-2011-JA; JAPIAU; KC0201030; TRN: US1104872
- Journal Information:
- Journal of Applied Physics, Vol. 108, Issue 11; ISSN 0021-8979
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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