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Processing chemically prepared YBa/sub 2/Cu/sub 3/O/sub 7/ precursor powders

Conference ·
OSTI ID:6507058
In an effort to determine the optimum conditions for preparing high purity, fine particle size high temperature superconducting oxide powder, we have investigated how calcination conditions influence the conversion of a chemically prepared hydroxycarbonate precursor powder to YBa/sub 2/Cu/sub 3/O/sub 7/. We find that the precursor can be converted to phase pure YBa/sub 2/Cu/sub 3/O/sub 7/ in either oxygen or synthetic air (20% O/sub 2/, 80% N/sub 2/) at 850/degree/C. This temperature is substantially lower than the temperature (>900/degree/C) normally used for the calcination of mixed-oxide powders. The lower calcination temperature prevents particle sintering and maintains the desired fine particle size. Powder processed in synthetic air shows a low degree of crystallinity indicating it may be more sinterable than the highly crystalline powders produced when an oxygen atmosphere is used. Intimate contact between powder particle surfaces and a flowing gas atmosphere promotes the reaction between the BaCO/sub 3/ component of the precursor powder and the Y and Cu constituents. 9 refs., 4 figs.
Research Organization:
Sandia National Labs., Albuquerque, NM (USA)
DOE Contract Number:
AC04-76DP00789
OSTI ID:
6507058
Report Number(s):
SAND-88-3196C; CONF-890251-1; ON: DE89005604
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English