Electrodeposition on Cuprate‐Based Superconductors in Nonaqueous Media

Abstract

Electrodeposition of metallic protection layers on the superconductor has been carried out in non‐aqueous electrolytes based on the organic solvents acetonitrile, methanol, and propylene carbonate. By lowering the reactivity of the solvent to the strongly oxidized superconductor, the range of potential accessible to cathodic reactions can be extended. In acetonitrile, films of silver, copper, lead, and tin can be deposited, whereas in water it is difficult to achieve more than silver deposits because of the ready reduction of the cuprate compound. Electrochemical techniques with rotating disk and ring‐disk electrodes in the nonaqueous electrolytes gave clear voltammetric evidence for the deposition of the metals, their anodic stripping from the substrate, and the ability to cycle the superconductor between plated and uncovered states. Optical microscopy, scanning electron micrographs, and energy dispersive x‐ray measurements were used to support the conclusion of high‐coverage, microcrystalline metal contacting layers being achieved on the superconductor substrate.