Reaction of organic materials with YBa₂Cu₃O_x

Strong surface and interfacial reactions between yttrium barium cuprate and common carbon‐based organics can occur at modest temperatures. These reactions can result in the loss of electrical continuity, lowered electrical conductivity, and loss of low‐temperature diamagnetic behavior. The effect occurs in powders exposed to common liquid solvents (acetone, hexane), as well as powders incorporated into polymer matrices (polyvinyl butyral, polyimid, silicone rubber, polyphosphazene). The powder acts as a strong catalytic agent in polymer matrices, generating exotherms, and can even cause combustion in some cases. A strong particle size effect is present.