Synthesis of an YBCO oxide filament by solidification of the gel precursor as a fibre during the sol-gel process

This paper presents some preliminary results concerning the synthesis of a YBCO fibre by solidification of the gel as a fibre. Transmission electron microscopy performed on a sample, obtained by the sol-gel method using acetate precursors and ethylenediamine or ammonia (as base) for pH adjustment, shows that the particles are composed of fibres. The gels obtained from these precursors at room temperature also have a fibre structure. By soft drying, avoiding sample grinding and calcination at 870 degrees C for 6 h, it was possible to retain this structure. The filament structure can be easily observed using optical microscopy analysis. Scanning electron microscopy shows that the fibres are composed of plate form particles which themselves are formed by tubular associated structures.