Fabrication and characterisation of Hg-based superconductive thin films

We have used a two step process to fabricate Hg-based thin films on various single crystal substrates, based on laser deposition of Hg-free precursors followed by high temperature synthesis in Hg atmosphere. Samples have been characterized by different structural and functional methods, including X-ray diffraction, and electrical and magnetic susceptibility investigations. Results indicate that the process leads to high quality Hg-based superconductive films, and point out a remarkable sensitivity on the synthesis parameters, whereas the choice of substrate material and laser deposition conditions appear to be not crucial.