Precise Size-Controlled Synthesis of BaMO₃ Nanoparticles on a Few Nanometers Scale by Water Content Control

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Condensed Matter Physics
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Superconducting tapes, such as REBa2Cu3Oy, are crucial for high-field applications.
• Enhancing the critical current density (Jc) in magnetic fields is a key challenge.
• Controlling nanoparticle characteristics is vital for improving superconducting properties.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a method for precisely controlling the particle size of BaMO3 (BMO) nanoparticles.
• To investigate the impact of these nanoparticles on the performance of REBa2Cu3Oy superconducting tapes.
• To improve the critical current of superconducting tapes in high magnetic fields.

Main Methods:

• Solvothermal synthesis method was employed to produce BaMO3 (BMO) nanoparticles.
• Particle size was controlled by optimizing synthesis temperature and water content.
• BaHfO3 (BHO) and BaZrO3 (BZO) nanoparticles were synthesized with sizes ranging from 1.5 to 7.4 nm.
• Fluorine-free metal organic decomposition (MOD) was used to prepare superconducting films.

Main Results:

• Achieved precise control over BMO nanoparticle size (1.5–7.4 nm) via solvothermal method.
• Demonstrated size control for both BaHfO3 (BHO) and BaZrO3 (BZO) nanoparticles.
• Successfully synthesized ~2 nm BZO nanoparticles for the first time.
• GdBa2Cu3Oy superconducting films incorporating BHO nanoparticles showed improved critical current at 20 K and 2.0–18 T.

Conclusions:

• The developed method allows for fine control of BMO nanoparticle size, crucial for material properties.
• Nanoparticle size engineering significantly enhances the performance of superconducting tapes in magnetic fields.
• This work offers a pathway for developing next-generation superconducting materials for demanding applications.