The effect of anomalous adsorption of H2O and CO2 by pre-hydrated YBa_2Cu_3O_{6.53}

Abstract

The results of a comprehensive study on the YBa_2Cu_3O_{6.53} oxide subjected to "mild" hydration (exposure at small values of pH2O) by a special technique have been reported. The material modified in this way acquires an interesting property; namely, in natural conditions it intensively absorbs large quantities of components (H2O and CO2) comprising the gas atmosphere. Arguments have been adduced that at least the water enters the crystal lattice of the yttrium-barium cuprate. This lattice is in the two-phase (tetragonal and orthorhombic) state: testing of the magnetic properties of the oxide has revealed the presence of antiferromagnetic and diamagnetic regions in this material.