Simple double-layer cuprates: 60K superconductivity in a lanthanum barium strontium copper oxide [La1.6Ba0.4SrCu2O6]

Abstract

Double layer cuprates of the formulae LaSrLnCu2O6 (Ln = Y or rare earth) and La2-xBaxACu2O6 (A = Ca, Sr) have been prepared by the traditional ceramic method and also by heating CuO, KClO3 and a carbonate mixture obtained by co-precipitation. precipitation. All these cuprates are tetragonal with the I4/mmm space group. While cuprates of the type LaSrLnCu2O6 are always insulating independent of the method of preparation, La1.6Ba0.4SrCu2O6 showed an onset of superconductivity at 60K is appears to be the second such cuprate of the AnBnO3n+1 series with n = 2 exhibiting superconductivity.