Optimization of the Crystal Growth Process for the High-Temperature Superconductor HgBa2 CuO4+8

Abstract

HgBa2 CuO4+8(Hg1201)is of critical importance in the study of high-­temperature superconductivity as it possesses one of the highest Tc values and is considered a model compound with a relatively simple structure. Research on Hg1201, particularly in the area of neutron scattering, has been limited by the demanding crystal growth procedure. Neutron scattering has proven to be a useful tool as neutrons interact magnetically with crystals, allowing for the detection of magnetic excitations; magnetic properties in different phases of high-­Tc materials are thought to be linked to the mechanism for superconductivity. Preparing a sample suitable for neutron scattering involves an intensive growth effort, as the weak nature of the neutron scattering cross section requires large, high-­‐quality crystal samples. The growth process of Hg1201 was optimized, resulting in several crystal samples to be measured with neutron scattering.