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Defect structure of superconducting YBa2Cu3O7-delta
1Universiteit Antwerpen, R.U.C.A., Antwerp, Belgium.
Journal of Electron Microscopy Technique
|March 1, 1988
Summary
Electron microscopy revealed defects in the Y1Ba2Cu3O7-delta superconductor. Defects like twinning and vacancy ordering impact its superconducting properties and stability, especially in powder form.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Solid-State Physics
- Superconductivity
Background:
- Y1Ba2Cu3O7-delta is a prominent high-temperature superconductor.
- Understanding defects is crucial for optimizing superconducting properties.
Purpose of the Study:
- Investigate defects in Y1Ba2Cu3O7-delta using electron microscopy.
- Characterize the impact of defects on material stability and structure.
Main Methods:
- Electron microscopy was employed for high-resolution imaging.
- Analysis focused on crystallographic defects, including twins and vacancies.
Main Results:
- Twinning on (110) planes is linked to orthorhombicity, with twin bands ~50 nm wide.
- A reversible orthorhombic-tetragonal transition occurs, controlled by diffusion.
- Vacancy ordering forms a 2a0 x b0 superstructure in reduced material.
- Powdered Y1Ba2Cu3O7-delta is unstable in air, showing (001) planar defects.
Conclusions:
- Defect structures significantly influence Y1Ba2Cu3O7-delta properties.
- Material stability is compromised in powdered form due to specific defects.