PREPARATION AND CHARACTERIZATION OF (BI, PB)2SR2CA2CU3O10-FILMS ON AGTAPE USING THE SCREEN-PRINTING TECHNIQUE(X SUPERCONDUCTING THICK)

Bi-Sr-Ca-Cu-O phases provide continuous manufacturing of tapes in long lengths using conventional techniques. Thick films of the BPSCCO 2223 phase [(Bi, Pb)2Sr2Ca2Cu3O10+x] were successfully prepared on Ag tape s by combining the processes of screen-printing with organic binders, cold deformation, and sintering.1 Technical and economical studies rev ealed that these processes have optimal properties for conductor fabri cation. The effect of atmosphere and powder composition on the formati on of the 2223 superconductor phase was studied on two different compo sites: BPSCCO/Ag (open system) and Ag/BPSCCO/Ag (closed system). For t he open system, both the evaporation of lead had to be avoided and the presence of additional ''catalytic'' Ag grains within the layer is ne cessary to promote the reaction of 2223 phase. Critical current densit ies j(c) of 6-12.10(3) A/cm2 (77 K, 0 T) were achieved in samples of t he closed system.