Synthesis, Transport And Microstructural Properties of Nd1.85Ce0.15CuO4‐δ

Abstract

AbstractThe n‐type superconductor, Nd1.85Ce0.15CuO4‐δ has been prepared by solid state reaction and solution precursor techniques under various conditions and characterized by means of X‐ray diffraction, magnetic susceptibility, electrical resistivity and SEM measurements. Samples prepared by solution method displayed higher normal state resistance but better superconducting volume fractions than those prepared by conventional ceramic techniques. In addition, the solution precursor technique reduces the sintering temperature from 1150°C (used for solid‐state route) to 1000°C in achieving the superconducting phase. The solution‐route yields particles with relatively uniform size distribution, but poor connectivity between the grains. In contrast, the solid state preparations yield well connected grains but with a larger distribution of sizes. The observed differences in the superconducting properties of samples prepared by different techniques have been attributed to the differences in their microstructure.