Robust superconductivity against water corrosion in Ba1−xKxFe2As2 bulks. (29th October 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Tu, Chang; Dong, Chiheng; Yao, Chao; Yang, Peng; Guo, Wenwen; Zhang, Qianjun; Wang, Dongliang; Zhang, Xianping; Ma, Yanwei
• Is Part Of: Superconductor science & technology. Volume 34:Number 12(2021)
• Publication Date: 2021-10-29
• Subjects: iron-based superconductor -- chemical stability -- water corrosion methanism; Superconductivity -- Periodicals; Superconductors -- Periodicals; 537.623
• DOI: 10.1088/1361-6668/ac30ce
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0953-2048

Abstract

Abstract: The degradation behavior of Ba x K1− x Fe2 As2 bulks in deionized water has been investigated via magnetic and electrical measurements, x-ray diffraction (XRD) and microstructure analyses. It is found that the polycrystalline bulk suffers a small loss of superconductivity in the deionized water environment for the 1st 12 h. However, it remains stable through the latter 10 d of immersion. We conclude the corrosion mechanism and suggest that the barium carbonate crystals and the amorphous iron-oxide accumulated on the surface prevent further reaction between water and BaK122 compounds. This unique surface passivation effect of BaK122 bulks is beneficial for practical applications in humid atmospheres.