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At least 37 records · Page 2
All sourcesNASA NTRSDOE OSTI
NASA NTRS1993

Diamondlike carbon films as protective coatings for superconducting YBa2Cu3O7 films

We have investigated the use of diamondlike carbon (DLC) films for protecting superconducting YBCO films against degradation from exposure to moisture and acid. YBCO thin films on single crystal LaAlO3 and MgO substrates were deposited by laser ablation followed by DLC encapsulation. DLC films were deposited at pressures ranging from high vacuum to 0.1 Torr He. Substrate temperature was varied from 20 to 100 C during the deposition of DLC. The process compatibility of laser ablation was found convenient to sequentially deposit YBCO and DLC films from high purity stoichiometric targets. Epitaxial YBCO films on (100)LaAlO3 and (100)MgO substrates showed identical superconducting transitions before and after encapsulation by a DLC layer. The encapsulated films showed no degradation due to acid treatment or aging over a period of 45 days.

Ganapathi, L.↗
NASA NTRS1996

YBCO High-Temperature Superconducting Filters on M-Plane Sapphire Substrates

Since the discovery of High Temperature Superconductors (HTS) in 1986, microwave circuits have been demonstrated using HTS films on various substrates. These HTS-based circuits have proven to operate with less power loss than their metallic film counterparts at 77 K. This translates into smaller and lighter microwave circuits for space communication systems such as multiplexer filter banks. High quality HTS films have conventionally been deposited on lanthanum aluminate (LaAlO3) substrates. However, LaAlO3 has a relative dielectric constant (epsilon(sub r)) of 24. With a epsilon(sub r) approx. 9.4-11.6, sapphire (Al2O3) would be a preferable substrate for the fabrication of HTS-based components since the lower dielectric constant would permit wider microstrip lines to be used in filter design, since the lower dielectric constant would permit wider microstrip lines to be used for a given characteristic impedance (Z(sub 0)), thus lowering the insertion losses and increasing the power handling capabilities of the devices. We report on the fabrication and characterization of YBa2Cu3O(7-delta) (YBCO) on M-plane sapphire bandpass filters at 4.0 GHz. For a YBCO 'hairpin' filter, a minimum insertion loss of 0.5 dB was measured at 77 K as compared with 1.4 dB for its gold counterpart. In an 'edge-coupled' configuration, the insertion loss went down from 0.9 dB for the gold film to 0.8 dB for the YBCO film at the same temperature.

Sabataitis, J. C.↗
NASA NTRS1990

Sequentially evaporated thin film YBa2Cu3O(7-x) superconducting microwave ring resonator

There is great interest in the application of thin film high temperature superconductors in high frequency electronic circuits. A ring resonator provides a good test vehicle for assessing the microwave losses in the superconductor and for comparing films made by different techniques. Ring resonators made of YBa2Cu3O(7-x) have been investigated on LaAlO3 substrates. The superconducting thin films were deposited by sequential electron beam evaporation of Cu, Y, and BaF2 with a post anneal. Patterning of the superconducting film was done using negative photolithography. A ring resonator was also fabricated from a thin gold film as a control. Both resonators had a gold ground plane on the backside of the substrate. The ring resonators' reflection coefficients were measured as a function of frequency from 33 to 37 GHz at temperatures ranging from 20 K to 68 K. The resonator exhibited two resonances which were at 34.5 and 35.7 GHz at 68 K. The resonant frequencies increased with decreasing temperature. The magnitude of the reflection coefficients was in the calculation of the unloaded Q-values. The performance of the evaporated and gold resonator are compared with the performance of a laser ablated YBa2Cu3O(7-x) resonator. The causes of the double resonance are discussed.

Rohrer, Norman J.↗
NASA NTRS1990

Thin films of the Bi2Sr2Ca2Cu3O(x) superconductor

Using RF sputtering technique, thin films of near single phase Bi2Sr2Ca2Cu3O(x) were successfully prepared on SrTiO3(100), MgO(100), and LaAlO3(012) substrates. Zero resistance of these films occurred in the range of 90-105 K.

Mei, YU↗
NASA NTRS1990

Complex permittivity of lanthanum aluminate in the 20 to 300 K temperature range from 26.5 to 40.0 GHz

Dielectric constants of microwave substrates are required in the design of superconducting microwave circuits at various temperatures. In this paper, the results are reported of a study of the complex permittivity of the newly developed lanthanum aluminate (LaAlO3) substrate, in the 20 to 300 K temperature range at frequencies from 26.5 to 40.0 GHz. The value of the complex permittivity was obtained by measuring the sample scattering parameters using a microwave waveguide technique. It is observed that, while the dielectric constant did not change appreciably with frequency, its value decreased by approximately 14 percent from room temperature to 20 K.

Miranda, F. A.↗
NASA NTRS1990

Determination of surface resistance and magnetic penetration depth of superconducting YBa2Cu3O(7-delta) thin films by microwave power transmission measurements

A novel waveguide power transmission measurement technique was developed to extract the complex conductivity of superconducting thin films at microwave frequencies. The microwave conductivity was taken of two laser ablated YBa2Cu3O(7-delta) thin films on LaAlO3 with transition temperatures of approx. 86.3 and 82 K, respectively, in the temperature range 25 to 300 K. From the conductivity values, the penetration depth was found to be approx. 0.54 and 0.43 micron, and the surface resistance (R sub s) to be approx. 24 and 36 micro-Ohms at 36 GHz and 76 K for the two films under consideration. The R sub s values were compared with those obtained from the change in the Q-factor of a 36 GHz Te sub 011-mode (OFHC) copper cavity by replacing one of its end walls with the superconducting sample. This technique allows noninvasive characterization of high transition temperature superconducting thin films at microwave frequencies.

Bhasin, K. B.↗
NASA NTRS1991

Electromigration failure in YBa2Cu3O(7-x) thin films

Electromigration failure in highly oriented YBa2Cu3O(7-x) thin films below the superconducting transition temperature is reported here for the first time. The film on SrTiO3 failed at 86 K, 230,000 A/sq cm, while that on LaAlO3 failed at 84 K, 930,000 A/sq cm. Scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive X-ray analysis of the films after failure shows that Cu migrates preferentially away from the failure region toward the electrode.

Vitta, Satish↗
NASA NTRS1991

In-situ sputtering of YBCO films for microwave applications

RF magnetron sputtering from a single YBCO target onto a heated substrate (700 C) was used to obtain c-axis-oriented 1-2-3 films that are superconducting without a subsequent annealing or oxygenation step, with Tc(R = 0) as high as 88 K on MgO and LaAlO3 substrates. This process uses an 8-in-diameter target in the sputter-up configuration, with a central grounded shield to eliminate negative ion bombardment. It can reproducibly and uniformly cover substrates as large as 3-in across at rates exceeding 1 A/s. Maintaining film composition very close to stoichiometry is essential for obtaining films with good superconducting properties and surface morphology. Optimum films have critical currents of 1 MA/sq cm at 77 K. Measurements of microwave surface resistance based on a stripline resonator indicate low surface resistance for unpatterned YBCO ground planes, but excess loss and a strong power dependence in a patterned center strip.

Ballentine, P. H.↗
NASA NTRS1991

Synthesis and superconducting properties of Tl-Ba-Ca-Cu-O films

Tl-Ba-Ca-Cu-O superconducting films were synthesized by sputtering either from a single target or from two oxide targets in a symmetric configuration. Films with zero resistance Tc of up to 122 K were obtained after various postannealing treatments at 870-950 C under an oxygen atmosphere. The composition of the films is not very homogeneous on the submicrometer scale. The critical current of these films at 77 K is in the 1000 A/sq cm to 10,000 A/sq cm range, which is much smaller than that of films prepared on SrTiO3 and LaAlO3 substrates. The low critical current density in these films is probably due to the granularity in the films. The morphology, structure, and magnetic and superconducting properties of the films were studied. Films prepared by two different sputtering techniques have similar results which depend mostly on the film compositions and their annealing conditions. It is found that the induced magnetic flux in the film decreases rapidly with increasing temperature, indicating weak flux pinning.

Liou, S. H.↗
NASA NTRS1991

Determination of surface resistance and magnetic penetration depth of superconducting YBa2Cu3O(7-delta) thin films by microwave power transmission measurements

A novel waveguide power transmission measurement technique was developed to extract the complex conductivity of superconducting thin films at microwave frequencies. The microwave conductivity was taken of two laser ablated YBa2Cu3O(7-delta) thin films on LaAlO3 with transition temperatures of approximately 86.3 and 82 K, respectively, in the temperature range 25 to 300 K. From the conductivity values, the penetration depth was found to be approximately 0.54 and 0.43 micron, and the surface resistance (R sub s) to be approximately 24 and 36 micro-Ohms at 36 GHz and 76 K for the two films under consideration. The R sub s values were compared with those obtained from the change in the Q-factor of a 36 GHz Te sub 011-mode (OFHC) copper cavity by replacing one of its end walls with the superconducting sample. This technique allows noninvasive characterization of high transition superconducting thin films at microwave frequencies.

Bhasin, K. B.↗
NASA NTRS1991

YBa2Cu3O(7-delta)/Au/Nb sandwich geometry SNS weak links on c-axis oriented YBa2Cu3O(7-delta)

Sandwich geometry superconductor/normal metal/superconductor structures have been fabricated on LaAlO3 and cubic zirconia with laser-ablated, c-axis-oriented YBa2Cu3O(7-delta) base electrodes, 100-600 A of Au, and Nb counter electrodes, all formed in situ without breaking vacuum. Junctions range in size from 5 to 50 micron on a side. Four probe I-V measurements at 4.2 K show RnA products as low as 6 x 10 to the -9th sq cm and critical current densities up to 5.2 kA/sq cm. AC Josephson steps were observed with the application of 10-GHz radiation. The temperature dependence of Jc and the observation of the AC Josephson effect suggest that true supercurrents are present and that they do indeed represent the characteristics of the YBa2Cu3O(7-delta)/Au/Nb structure. The best results were obtained when the devices were annealed at about 450 C in O2 for 30 min after Au deposition.

Foote, M. C.↗
NASA NTRS1991

Deposition of high quality YBa2Cu3O(7-delta) thin films over large areas by pulsed laser ablation with substrate scanning

The paper describes thin films deposited in a system where substrates are scanned over areas up to 3.5 x 3.5 cm through the stationary plume of an ablated material defined by an aperture. These YBCO films are deposited on LaAlO3 and SrTiO3 substrates with the thickness of 90 and 160 nm. Attention is focused on the main features of the deposition system: line focusing of the laser beam on the target; an aperture defining the area of the plume; computerized stepper motor-driven X-Y stage translating the heated sampler holder behind the plume-defining aperture in programmed patterns; and substrate mounting block with uniform heating at high temperatures over large areas. It is noted that the high degree of uniformity of the properties in each film batch illustrates that the technique of pulsed laser deposition can be applied to produce large YBCO films of high quality.

Davis, M. F.↗
NASA NTRS1991

High-Tc superconductor coplanar waveguide filter

Coplanar waveguide (CPW) low-pass filters made of YBa2Cu3O(7-delta) (YBCO) on LaAlO3 substrates, with dimensions suited for integrated circuits, were fabricated and packaged. A complete filter gives a true idea of the advantages and difficulties in replacing thin-film metal with a high-temperature superconductor in a practical circuit. Measured insertion losses in liquid nitrogen were superior to the loss of a similar thin-film copper filter throughout the 0- to 9.5-GHz passband. These results demonstrate the performance of fully patterned YBCO in a practical CPW structure after sealing in a hermetic package.

Chew, Wilbert↗
NASA NTRS1991

Design and performance of a high-Tc superconductor coplanar waveguide filter

The design of a coplanar waveguide low-pass filter made of YBa2Cu3O(7-delta) (YBCO) on an LaAlO3 substrate is described. Measurements were incorporated into simple models for microwave CAD analysis to develop a final design. The patterned and packaged coplanar waveguide low-pass filter of YBCO, with dimensions suited for integrated circuits, exhibited measured insertion losses when cooled in liquid nitrogen superior to those of a similarly cooled thin-film copper filter throughout the 0 to 9.5 GHz passband. Coplanar waveguide models for use with thin-film normal metal (with thickness either greater or less than the skin depth) and YBCO are discussed and used to compare the losses of the measured YBCO and copper circuits.

Chew, Wilbert↗
NASA NTRS1992

Superconducting Films On Microwave Dielectric Substrates

Thin films of superconductor YBa(2)Cu(3)O(7-delta), formed on microwave dielectric substrates of SrTiO3, MgO, Al2O3 coated with ZrO2, and LaAlO3. Films formed by repeated sequential desposition of layers of Cu, BaF2, and Y in electro-beam evaporator, followed by annealing in oxygen. Technique employed gives layers uniformity and reproducibility required for fabrication of microwave circuits.

Warner, J. D.↗
NASA NTRS1992

Growth And Patterning Of High-Tc Superconducting Films

Superconducting films of YBa(2)Cu(3)O(7-delta), having high superconducting-transition temperatures (Tc's), deposited on LaAlO3 substrates and etched into patterns representative of passive microwave devices, with no deterioration of superconducting properties.

Warner, J. D.↗
NASA NTRS1991

Prospects and progress of high Tc superconductivity for space applications

Current research in the area of high temperature superconductivity is organized around four key areas: communications and data, sensors and cryogenics, propulsion and power, and space materials technology. Recently, laser ablated YBa2Cu3O(7-x) films on LaAlO3 produced far superior RF characteristics when compared to metallic films on the same substrate. The achievement has enabled a number of unique microwave device applications, such as low insertion loss phase shifters and high-Q filters. Melt texturing and melt-quenched techniques are being used to produce bulk material with optimized magnetic properties. These yttrium-enriched materials possess enhanced flux pinning characteristics and could lead to prototype cryocooler bearings. Significant progress has also occurred in bolometer and current lead technology. Studies were conducted to evaluate the effect of high temperature superconducting materials on the performance and life of high power magnetoplasma-dynamic thrusters. Extended studies were also performed to evaluate the benefit of superconducting magnetic energy storage for LEO space station, lunar, and Mars mission applications.

Romanofsky, Robert R.↗
NASA NTRS1992

Magnetic penetration depth of YBa2Cu3O(7-delta) thin films determined by the power transmission method

A power transmission measurement technique was used to determine the magnetic penetration depth (lambda) of YBa2Cu3O(7-delta) superconducting thin films on LaAlO3 within the 26.5 to 40.0 GHz frequency range, and at temperatures from 20 to 300 K. Values of lambda ranging from 1100 to 2500 A were obtained at low temperatures. The anisotropy of lambda was determined from measurements of c-axis and a-axis oriented films. An estimate of the intrinsic value of lambda of 90 +/- 30 nm was obtained from the dependence of lambda on film thickness. The advantage of this technique is that it allows lambda to be determined nondestructively.

Heinen, Vernon O.↗