All solution-chemistry approach for YBa2Cu3O7-δ-coated conductors

A need exists for low-cost coated-conductor fabrication methods for applications in magnet and electric-power technologies. We demonstrate high-critical current density (J(c)) YBa2Cu3O7-delta (YBCO) films grown on Nb-doped SrTiO3 (Nb:STO) buffered Ni(100) tapes. All buffer and superconductor layers are deposited using solution chemistry. A 50 nm thick Nb:STO seed layer on Ni(100) acts as a template for the growth of subsequent thicker layers of Nb:STO. Nb doping improves the electrical conductivity and oxygen diffusion barrier properties of STO. YBCO grows heteroepitaxially directly on this buffer layer, resulting in a transport J(c)(77 K)=1.3 MA/cm(2). (C) 2002 American Institute of Physics.