Optimization of the solution-sol-gel process to synthesize homogeneous BiPbSrCaCuO powder

A criterion for optimization of the solution-sol-gel (SSG) process has been developed to synthesize homogeneous BiPbSrCaCuO powder by means of X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDAX) and AC susceptibility measurements. The criterion consists of two points: (1) observation of the SSG transition process to ensure no precipitation of crystals during the SSG transition and (2) characterization of the dry gel with XRD to ensure a gel of amorphous structure with no crystals. The criterion is verified to be effective in the synthesis of BiPbSrCaCuO powder.