The decomposition of edta-gel precursors in the production of BSCCO superconductors

The decomposition of EDTA gel precursors for BSCCO superconductor manufacture has been studied using STA (TG/DTA) and dilatometry in conjunction with FTIR. The thermoanalytical data are discussed in relation to the sequence of phase formation necessary for the production of the 2223 BSCCO superconducting phase. The effects of substitution of Pb for Bi on the temperatures of formation of the superconducting phases is also discussed. STA has also been carried out under varying oxygen partial pressures to determine the effects of oxygen pressure on the formation and decomposition of the phases involved in the production of the 2223 compound.