Study on the formation of Pb-free Bi-2223 from Bi-2212

Abstract

Bi-2223 was synthesized using Bi-2212, Ca₂CuO₃ and CuO as precursors. The samples were sintered at a temperature nearly below the melting point of Bi-2212 so the breaking of BiO bilayer would introduce fluid-like movement for Bi-2212 to react with Bi-2223. The sample sintered near the melting point of Bi-2212 showed large amounts of Bi-2223. Also, the samples with long sintering time revealed large amount of Bi-2223. The samples with higher Bi-2223 volume fraction showed presence of layered structure as shown by SEM images. These features were associated with the fluid-like movement of Bi-2212.