Ag/(Bi, Pb)-Sr-Ca-Cu-O superconducting tape processing: Solid state chemistry aspects

Abstract Different preparation methods have been used to obtain starting powders used in the fabrication of composite tapes by the powder-in-tube method. The effect of these distinct starting powders on the superconducting properties of Ag/Bi-Sr-Ca-Cu-O monofilament tapes has been investigated. The changes in the physical properties, including the critical current density at 77 K and ac magnetic susceptibility, and microstructure, using optical and electronic microscopy, have been analyzed in relation to the solid state reactions involved in the Bi 2 Sr 2 CaCu 2 O 8+δ and Bi 2 Sr 2 Ca 2 Cu 3 O 10+δ phase transformations.