SEM and SEM by EDX Analysis of Air-Processed SmBa₂Cu₃O_y

The present investigation focuses on the microstructure and chemical analysis of the in-air processed SmBa₂Cu₃O_y (Sm-123) sample with 3 wt% BaO₂ and 20 wt% Ag₂O addition. DC magnetization measurements showed a sharp superconducting transition with onset T_c at around 94.5 K. The critical current density (J_c) at 77 K and zero field was 24 kA/cm². SEM analysis indicated dispersion of submicron secondary phase particles in the Sm-123 matrix. SEM by EDX analysis confirmed that matrix chemical ratio at various locations of the pellet was uniform. Trapped magnetic field profile analysis confirmed that samples were single grain. The sample with size of 12 by 12 mm and 5 mm thickness showed the trapped field on top surface 0.26T at liquid nitrogen temperature. The results indicate that content of BaO₂ is crucial for improving utilization parameters of the bulk Sm-123 material melt-processed in air.