A low-cost batch process for high-performance melt-textured GdBaCuO pellets

Abstract

A new batch process was developed for fabrication of GdBa2Cu3Oy pellets in air. The samples weremelt-processed using a cold seeding method with thin film Nd-123 seeds grown on MgO crystals. To reduce price, we used self-made Gd-123 and Gd-211 powders mixed with 0.1 wt% of Pt. Up to 1–1.5 kg of melt-grown Gd-123 bulks could be prepared in one run.