Nd Substitution in Y/Ba Sites in Melt Processed YBa_2Cu_3O_(7-δ) Through Nd_2O_3 Additions

摘要

YBa_2Cu_3O_(7-δ) (Y123) samples with excess Nd_2O_3 and Y_2O_3 additions in the same molar ratios were melt textured in air. In the Nd-doped samples, in addition to Y ion site substitution, partial substitution into the Ba~(2+) sites is anticipated because of the similar ionic sizes of Nd~(3+) and Ba~(2+). The microstructure, T_c, and magnetic properties of Nd-doped samples were analyzed and compared with undoped Y123 and samples with excess Y_2O_3. The Nd_2O_3 additions lead to significant magnetization improvements, likely due to both rare earth- and Ba-site substitution by the doped Nd~(3+) ions, and to increases in T_c. Y_2O_3 additions resulted in no marked property enhancement.