Synthesis and Characterization of Single-Phase (Tl1-xBix)Sr2Ca2Cu3Oy Ceramics

Abstract
The synthesis and characterization of the “1223” phase in a Tl-(Bi)-Sr-Ca-Cu-O system are described. Almost-single-phase (Tl1-x Bi x )Sr2Ca2Cu3O y ceramics (x≦0.25) were obtained by using Tl2O3 and Tl2O as Tl sources. The zero-resistance temperature of the so-called “1223” phase reached 115 K for the nominal composition of Tl2Bi0.25Sr2Ca2Cu3O y ceramic. The Bi addition stabilized the “1223” phase and improved the superconductivity.