Enhanced critical current density in GdBa2Cu3O7−δ thin films with substrate surface decoration using Gd2O3 nanoparticles

The effect of substrate surface decoration on the critical current density (Jc) of GdBa2Cu3O7−δ (GdBCO) thin films has been investigated. Prior to GdBCO deposition, uniformly-distributed Gd2O3 nanoparticles were applied to a substrate surface by using the pulsed laser deposition technique. GdBCO films deposited on Gd2O3-decorated SrTiO3 (STO) substrates showed an enhanced in-field Jc in comparison with that of GdBCO film on untreated STO. The Jc enhancement may be attributed to both the Gd2O3 nanoparticles located at the film/substrate interface and to induced linear defects that were nearly parallel to the c-axis of the film, as confirmed by the transmission electron microscope analysis. A significantly improved pinning force Fp in terms of a larger Fpmax values was obtained with Gd2O3 decoration. ► GdBCO thin films were grown on Gd2O3 nanoparticle decorated substrates.► The Gd2O3 nanoparticles were preserved and induced linear defects in GdBCO matrix.► The critical current density and the pinning force of the GdBCO film were enhanced.