Synthesis of superconducting MgB2 films on Al2O3 substrates by electrocrystallization

The comparative study of MgB2 film growth on Al2O3 and glass substrate by electrocrystallization technique is discussed. The precursor magnesium films were deposited by vacuum evaporation method. These magnesium films were then used as electrode for the growth of MgB2 films by electrocrystallization. The structural, morphological and superconducting properties of the electrocrystallized MgB2 films on alumina substrate were examined by using XRD, SEM and electrical resistivity measurement techniques and compared with that of MgB2 films grown on glass substrate. The films deposited on Al2O3 substrates showed enhanced crystallinity and relatively higher Tc value compared to films deposited on glass substrates. (author)