Preparation of superconductor/polymer composite with resistive transition temperature (Tc) above 77 K

Sintered Y sub 1 Ba sub 2 Cu sub 3 O sub 7 sub - sub x disk is impregnated with low-viscosity 2-ethylhexyl acrylate monomer containing benzoyl peroxide and dicumyl peroxide as polymerization catalysts under moderate vacuum for 30 min followed by an overnight soaking. The polymerization treatment consists of a heat treatment at 60 degrees C for 24 h followed by a second heat treatment at 80 degrees for 8- 10 h. The composite specimens exhibit superconducting resistive transition at approximately 80 K. SEM reveals excellent wetting, infiltration, and polymerization of the monomer into the superconducting material.