YBa2Cu3O7 synthesis using microwave heating
The superconducting material YBa2Cu3O7−x was prepared by microwave heating of an oxide mixture (Y2O3, BaO, CuO). The time required for the synthesis is reduced to about 3.5 h compared to 1–2 days if conventional heating is used. If during the microwave heating the boat containing the starting powders is surrounded by SiC, the Y2BaCuO5 insulating phase does not appear.
Angelo Agostino1,2, Paola Benzi1,2, Mario Castiglioni1, Nicoletta Rizzi1 and Paolo Volpe1,2