Superconductivity of Bi_1.6Pb_0.4Sr₂Ca₃Cu₄O₁₂

The superconducting ceramics Bi_1.6Pb_0.4Sr₂Ca₃Cu₄O₁₂ have been prepared by melt-casting method. A zero resistance temperature at 60 K has been observed. It has been found that the superconducting phase temperature T_c increases with increasing sintering temperature. The effect of Pb content on the superconductivity of the ceramic has been studied. The microstructure of the sample has been investigated by scanning electron microscopy. Phase analysis has been carried out by x-ray diffraction patterns and energy dispersive analysis through x-ray spectroscopy.