Synthesis of BiSrCaCu(Ni)O Ceramics from the Gel Precursors and the Effect of Ni Substitution

Superconducting BiSrCaCu(Ni)O ceramicss have been prepared by the gel method using an aqueous solution containing a tartaric acid. The aqueous solution of metal salts was concentrated without precipitation. The precursor so prepared was homogeneou s and calcined at $825^{\circ}C$ for 24 h to produce superconducting phase. The thermal decomposition of gels, the formation of superconducting phase, and their ceramic microstructure were studied using IR, TGA, XRD, resistance measurements, and SEM. This method is highly reproducible and leads to powders with excellent homogeneity and small particle size for easy sinterability. The nickel dopant substituting for Cu gives rise to the gradual decrease of the Tc. Phase pure 2212 ceramics were obtained at 825 $^{\circ}C$ for 24 h. SEM pictures showed that liquid phase was formed when the samples were sintered temperatures higher than 825 $^{\circ}C$.