Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 26, 2026

Application of a Coupling Agent to Improve the Dielectric Properties of Polymer-Based Nanocomposites
Published on: September 19, 2020
Control of nanostructure and pinning properties in solution deposited YBa2Cu3O7-x nanocomposites with preformed
Ziliang Li1, Mariona Coll2, Bernat Mundet1
1Institut de Ciència de Materials de Barcelona, ICMAB-CSIC, Campus de la UAB, 08193, Bellaterra, Spain.
Abstract:
Solution deposited YBa2Cu3O7-x (YBCO) nanocomposites with preformed nanoparticles represent a promising cost-effective approach for superior critical current properties under applied magnetic fields. Nonetheless, the majority of YBCO nanocomposites with high nanoparticle loads (>20%) suffer from nanoparticle coalescence and degraded superconducting properties. Here, we study the influence of nanoparticle concentration (0-25% mol), size (5 nm-10 nm) and composition (BaHfO3, BaZrO3) on the generation of structural defects in the epitaxial YBCO matrix, key parameter for vortex pinning. We demonstrate that flash-heated superconducting nanocomposites with 20 mol% preformed BaHfO3 or BaZrO3 perovskite secondary phases feature discrete and small (7 nm) nanoparticles and high density of YBa2Cu4O8 (Y248) intergrowths. We identify a synergy between Y248 intergrowth density and small nanoparticles to increase artificial vortex pinning centers. Also, we validate the multideposition process to successfully increase film thickness of epitaxial nanocomposites with competitive critical currents Ic at 77 K.
Related Concept Videos
General Properties of Solutions
Euler's Formula for Pin-Ended Columns
To calculate the critical load, envision...
Enthalpy of Solution
Phase Transitions: Sublimation and Deposition
Determining the pH of Salt Solutions
Ideal Solutions

