Rapid Preparation of High-Tc Superconductors of the Bi-2212 Phase Using a Domestic Microwave Oven

Single-phase samples of high-T c superconductors of the Bi-2212 phase have been prepared using a domestic microwave oven. It is to be important for the preparation to control the temperature of the sample environment and to repeat the microwave-radiation process with intermediate grinding, because the Bi-2212 phase is stable only in a narrow temperature range and requires a long heat-treatment time for formation. The partial substitution of Pb for Bi is also to be effective for the formation of the Bi-2212 phase.