A process for a new form of YBa2Cu3Oy having dimensions of thick films andmicrostructure of single domain bulks

A novel process for the fabrication of YBa2Cu3Oy (123) having a microstruct ure of single domain bulks and dimensions of thick films is reported. The p rocess allows the fabrication of 123 as a self-supporting fabric or as thic k films on various substrate materials. It involves the conversion of comme rcially available Y2O3 fabrics, woven in different forms, by the infiltrati on of liquid phases from a suitable source, into a single domain 123 during a series of distinct heat treatment stages. The process has both technical and cost advantages over existing processing technologies.