Nanoscale analysis of YBa2Cu3O7-x/La0.67Ca0.33MnO3 interfaces

The structure of interfaces in superconducting/ferromagnetic YBa2Cu3O7-x/La0.67Ca0.33MnO3 superlattices has been analyzed by scanning transmission electron microscopy and high spatial resolution electron energy loss spectroscopy. Individual layers are flat over long lateral distances. The interfaces are coherent, free of defects, exhibiting no roughness, and are located at the BaO plane of the superconductor. Concerning chemical disorder, EELS measurements show the absence of measurable chemical interdiffusion within experimental error bars. (C) 2003 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.