The Effects of Nanoparticle Addition in Bi-2212 Superconductors

The effect of Y 2 O 3 nanoparticle addition on the superconducting properties of Bi 1.6 Pb 0.4 Sr 2 CaCu 2 O y have been investigated. The samples were prepared using high purity oxide powders via solid state reaction method. Y 2 O 3 nanoparticle with 0.0-1.0 wt. % was systematically added to the well balanced Bi 1.6 Pb 0.4 Sr 2 CaCu 2 O y before sinter in order to trace the existense of nanoparticle addition in the system. The samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and critical current density, Jc . The current density measurement was done via four-point probe method under zero magnetic fields. The critical current density, Jc and superconductivity transition temperature, Tc for sample with addition of Y 2 O 3 nanoparticle were found to be higher than the pure sample. The optimal addition of Y 2 O 3 nanoparticle to the sample Bi-2212 system was found at 0.7 wt. %. The crystallographic structure of all samples was evidenced to be orthorhombic where a ≠ b ≠ c. Changes in superconducting properties of Y 2 O 3 nanoparticle added Bi-2212 system were discussed.