Observation of GdBa2Cu3O7-δ Ceramic Microstructure

Abstract
The microstructures of high-T c superconductor GdBa2Cu3O7-δ prepared under various sintering conditions were observed by using SEM and EPMA. The second phase was found on the grain boundaries of the samples sintered at temperatures higher than 970°C. The phase was confirmed to consist of more Ba and less Gd in comparison with the composition of the grain.