Phase Relations and Compatibilities in the Bi-Sr-Ca-Cu and Bi-Sr-Ca-Ru Oxide Systems

Phase relations of the BSCCO system are extended into the Ru-bearing system in order to elucidate the phase compatibilities of a large number of interesting materials. The systems Bi-Sr oxide, Bi-Ru oxide, and Sr-Ru oxide are delineated. The ruthenates have very high melting temperatures, are reactive with many container materials, and lose Ru by volatilization. Different synthetic pathways of alkaline earth ruthenates have been undertaken. The results of these pathways are described and discussed.