Effect of Yb addition on the superconducting properties of (Bi,Pb)-2212 superconductor

The effects of Yb addition on the phase evolution and superconducting properties of (Bi,Pb)-2212 superconductor prepared by solid state synthesis in the polycrystalline form were studied. Yb content of the samples was varied (x = 0–0.5) on a general stoichiometry of Bi_1.7Pb_0.4Sr_2.0Ca_1.1Cu_2.1Yb_xO_y. Phase analysis by XRD, microstructural examination by SEM, measurements of density and superconducting properties were done to evaluate the relative performance of the samples. A Yb containing secondary phase could be distinguished from XRD analysis from Yb > 0.3 in the stoichiometric level. Microstructural examination showed clear and distinct morphological variation with Yb stoichiometry and a secondary phase with round edged grains was observed in the microstructure of Yb added samples. The critical current density (J_C) and superconducting transition temperature (T_C) of all the Yb added samples were found to be higher than that of the pure sample. A maximum T_C-onset of 94.5 K and a maximum J_C 688 A/cm² has been observed for the sample with Yb = 0.2 in the stoichiometric level. Above this level T_C and J_C began to reduce, may be due to secondary phase formation.