Synthesis of Pb-based cuprate superconductors by the sol-gel method

The sol-gel method provides a convenient means for preparing lead cuprates of the types Pb2Sr2−y Ba y Ln 1−x Ca x Cu3O8 (2213 type) with Ln=Y or rare earth and Pb1−z Cu z Sr2−y Ba y Y1−x Ca x Cu2O7(1212 type). Superconducting compositions of these two families showing sharp transitions can be prepared in a reproducible manner by this method.