Changes in structure, texture and properties of yttrium high-Tc superconductor thin sheets on annealing

A study was made on phase composition, microstructure, regularities of change of lattice parameters and texture, as well as Tk of Y-HTSC thin sheets of 100-300 μm thickness, prepared by rolling of basic powder with plasticizer from synthetic rubber solution (α-10 vol %) in petrol or acetone. Influence of thermal treatment on the sheets was investigated (single-stage annealing at 200-1000 deg C during 1-200 h in the air, oxygen or hydrogen). Cold-strained and annealed in oxygen Y-HTSC sheets with pronounced basis (00l) texture preserve high Tk. Elevation of temperature and time of annealing of Y-HTSC sheets in H2 results quickly in complete degradation of structure and Tk