Superconducting YBa2Cu3O7-δ deposits by electrodeposition in complexing media

Abstract

This work describes the obtention of YBa2Cu3O7-δ deposits over metallic wires by electrodeposition of metallic precusors from DMSO solutions at constant potential and thermal treatment in oxidizing atmospheres. Simultaneous deposition of Cu, Y and Ba is achieved by reacting copper ions with complexing agents. In this way copper may be deposited at potentials near those of Y and Ba, and thus, we avoid the expected problems of preferential deposition for copper. After annealing, the deposits show bulk superconducting properties with Tc values of 92K, and significant grain conection. Particle sizes are {reversed tilde} 10μm. Small impurities of Y2BaCuO5 and CuO are found by Xray diffraction and electron microscopy. Codeposition of K is also observed, but the final product does not contain detectable amounts of this element.