NORMAL-STATE AND SUPERCONDUCTIVITY OF ERBA2(CU1-XCRX)(3)O-7-DELTA(X=0-0.1)

The effects of Cr in ErBa2(Cu1-xCrx)(3)O-7-delta (x = 0.01) supercondu ctor have been investigated. The critical temperature, which was deter mined by DC electrical resistance measurements, showed no suppression of the onset temperature (T-c (onset)) within the substitution range. The transition width (Delta T-c) broadened as the Cr content is increa sed. The normal state changes from the metal-like to semimetal/semicon ductor-like for x greater than or equal to 0.03. Micrographs from the scanning electron microscope, X-ray diffraction pattern, and energy di spersive X-ray analysis results are used to describe the superconducti ng properties of these materials. The orthorhombic structure was prese rved throughout the substitution range. Some possible roles of Cr in t he system are discussed.