Synthesis of YBCO - Y-2411-M (M=Bi, Mo, Nb, Ta, Ti and Zr) superconducting composites by TSMG

YBa₂Cu₃O_7-δ (YBCO) is a well-known high-temperature superconductor (HTS), whose properties can be improved significantly via flux pinning. In this contribution, we have attempted to synthesize Y-2411-M (Y₂Ba₄CuMO_x; M=Bi, Mo, Nb, Ta, Ti and Zr) phases by solid state reaction to serve as artificial pinning centers in YBCO. We discuss both the synthesis of Y-2411-M phases as well as the final Y-2411-M ceramic composites based on YBCO matrix. Phases and precursors were analyzed using X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD) and Rietveld analysis was performed to refine the lattice parameters. Promising phases were used for growth of single crystals using top-seeded melt growth (TSMG). These bulks were further characterized using XRD, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to provide context to their structure – properties relationship. Thermal stability of the successfully prepared bulks was studied using STA.