Structural and Electrical Properties of HgSr₁.₆Y₀.₄Ca₂Cu₃O₈+δ Superconductor Synthesized by the Solid-State Method

Abstract

Abstract

The present study focuses on the preparation and comprehensive characterization of HgSr₁.₆Y₀.₄Ca₂Cu₃O₈₊δ superconductors synthesized via the solid-state reaction method. The structural and surface characteristics of the prepared material were examined using X-ray diffraction (XRD), atomic force microscopy (AFM), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). XRD analysis established the formation of a tetragonal crystal structure associated with the Hg-1223 phase, from which the lattice parameters, density, and superconducting phase volume fraction were determined. AFM and SEM investigations revealed a heterogeneous surface morphology characterized by dome-like and flake-like grains with different dimensions. The electrical resistivity was evaluated using the four-probe technique within the temperature range of 100–300 K, yielding Tc (onset) = 136 K and Tc (offset) = 121 K. Thermal conductivity measurements performed by Lee’s disc method between 300 and 560 K demonstrated a progressive increase with temperature. Additionally, the dielectric response was examined at room temperature over the frequency range of 50 Hz–1 MHz using an LCR meter. The real and imaginary dielectric constants, dielectric loss coefficient, and AC electrical conductivity were determined and exhibited distinct frequency-dependent behavior. These findings confirm the successful formation of the Hg-1223 phase and demonstrate its promising superconducting, thermal, and dielectric properties.