Effects and loss of lead in doped Bi-Sr-Ca-Cu-O films

Abstract
Films of Bi-Sr-Ca-Cu-O, with and without lead doping, were prepared by rf magnetron sputtering of oxide targets. The films were annealed in oxygen for varying durations and characterized by electron microprobe and x-ray diffraction. The results show a drastic loss of lead during annealing. Films with the lead-enhanced Bi2Sr2Ca2Cu3Oy (2223) phase had no detectable lead after annealing. The films were seen to grow in stages of 2201, 2212, and finally 2223 phases. The lead affected film development through these stages.