Environmental degradation properties of YBa2Cu3O7-delta and Y0.6Ca0.4Ba1.6La0.4Cu3O7-delta thin film structures

Utilization of the high temperature superconductor, YBa2Cu3O7-delta, in commercial applications is becoming increasingly feasible. Before full advantage of this material can be taken, however, the lifetime, oxygen stability and processability of this ambient reactive superconductor must be improved. Corrosion resistance of YBa2Cu3O7-delta and a cation substituted compound, Y0.6Ca0.4Ba1.6La0.4Cu3O7-delta, were studied and their lifetimes in aqueous environments were determined. Results indicate a dramatic enhancement in the stability against environmental degradation for the cation substituted phase. Important mechanistic factors responsible for the enhanced corrosion resistance of the substituted phase over the parent compound are discussed.