Optimization of in situ annealing conditions for off-axis PLD MgB2 films

We optimized the conditions for the in situ annealing that follows the off-axis pulsed laser deposition of MgB2 thin films. The influence on the superconductivity of the two major annealing parameters, which are the dwell time, τann, and the sintering temperature, Tann, was investigated. The optimal annealing conditions regarding the transition temperature were obtained by analysing the change in the critical temperature, Tc, with different dwell times and sintering temperatures. X-ray diffraction (XRD) θ–2θ scans on the two series of films confirm the sole MgB2 phase composition in the best Tc film with a zero resistance Tc of 34.2 K and transition width of 0.2 K. The film also shows good critical current density Jc performance in magnetic fields.