Novel Solution‐Soaking Method for Adding Dopants to YBa₂Cu₃O_7−x to Achieve Higher Sintered Densities

Abstract

was doped with various metal ions by a new technique in which a pellet (afer binder burnout) was soaked in a solution containing the appropriate ions and then dried. The sintered density of the treated pellets depended on the dopant in the solution, and in many cases it was much higher than that obtained f o r pure YBa,Cu,O,-, (93% to 96% as compared with 85% to 90%). A study of the microstructure revealed that, in those cases where higher sintered densities were obtained, the grain size was much smaller. The grain morphology, however, did not change. It is likely that the high Concentration of dopant adsorbed on the grain suiface during solution soaking enhanced the rate of sintering. [H E c e r a m i c s u p e r c o n d u c t o r lot of attention because of its relatively high transition temperature (Tc=91 K) and consequent potential for applications. It P. K. Gallagher-contributing editor Manuscript No. 198976.