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Optimization of YBCO surfaces for tunnel junctions

Conference · · IEEE Trans. Magn.; (United States)
OSTI ID:6091456

The authors have established that in YBa/sub 2/Cu/sub 3/O/sub 7/ films, prepared by annealing amorphous oxide deposits, Ba segregation in the amorphous phase and YBCO decomposition after crystallization are the major causes of surface degradation. They have grown films, by entirely in-situ processing, in which these effects are minimized. These films were epitaxially grown on (100) SrTiO/sub 3/ substrates with the a-axis normal to the film plane. Both structural and chemical analyses indicated that they were homogeneous and have proper stoichiometry up to their surfaces. At 4.2K, contract resistivities below 4 x 10/sup -10/ ohm-cm/sup 2/ were obtained with gold overlayers. Junctions have been formed by depositing thin Au proximity layers over the YBCO films followed by MgO barriers and Nb counterelectrodes. In some of the junctions weak-link shorts were observed providing unambiguous evidence that the growth procedures used can produce films that are superconducting up to their surfaces.

Research Organization:
Westinghouse R and D Center, Pittsburgh, PA (US)
OSTI ID:
6091456
Report Number(s):
CONF-880812-
Journal Information:
IEEE Trans. Magn.; (United States), Journal Name: IEEE Trans. Magn.; (United States) Vol. 25:2; ISSN IEMGA
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English

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