THERMAL-TREATMENT OF A MODIFIED ALKOXIDE GEL PRECURSOR FOR THE PREPARATION OF THE YBA2CU4O8 SUPERCONDUCTOR

A precursor of Y-Ba-Cu oxides was prepared by a modified alkoxide sol- gel method and its thermal decomposition in air was studied by on-line coupled TG-FTIR and High Resolution Thermogravimetric measurements. A continuous more or less stepwise weight loss was observed between roo m temperature and 600 degrees C at which all organic compounds had evo lved and were progressively oxidized as the temperature increased leav ing only Y and Cu oxides and bariumcarbonate. Between 700 and 800 degr ees C a final weight loss was observed due to the decomposition of bar iumcarbonate into oxide.