Weak-field magnetization of superconducting Y1Ba2Cu3Ox: Relationship to microstructure

Abstract

We have tested the granular magnetization model of Finnemore et al. on a well-characterized sample of ${\mathrm{Y}}_1$ ${\mathrm{Ba}}_2$ ${\mathrm{Cu}}_3$ ${\mathrm{O}}_{\mathrm{x}}$. The temperature dependence of the magnetic susceptibility is in excellent agreement with the model. In addition, the grain size deduced from the magnetization data (1–2 μm) is in reasonable agreement with direct scanning-electron-microscopy measurements of the microstructure.