Electrochemical deposition of the hydroxide precursors to YBa2Cu3O7–δ and related phases

Abstract

Thin films of hydroxide precursors of YBa2Cu3O7delta; (YBCO) have been electrodeposited from aqueous solution. The compositions of the films were tailored in two ways: firstly by adjusting the deposition voltage, and secondly by varying the relative amounts of precursor solutes in solution. The desired hydroxide precursor to YBa2Cu3O7delta; having the correct ratios of cation can be formed by electrodeposition at a potentiostatic voltage of 1.4V (vs. SCE) at a silver electrode immersed in an aqueous solution of composition Y(NO3)3=0.0125moldm3; Ba(NO3)2=0.150moldm3 and Cu(NO3)2=0.025moldm3.