Effects of hydrofluoric acid (HF) treatment on the properties of Y–Ba–Cu–O oxides were investigated. No obvious etching of bulk Y–Ba–Cu–O and no degradation of zero resistance temperature were observed even though the oxides were placed into 49% HF solution for up to 20 h. Surface passivation of Y–Ba–Cu–O due to HF immersion was verified by subsequent immersion of Y–Ba–Cu–O in water. A thin layer of amorphous fluoride formed on the surface of the Y–Ba–Cu–O during HF treatment, which limited further reaction between Y–Ba–Cu–O and HF, and later reaction with water. Thin film Y–Ba–Cu–O was passivated by HF vapors and showed no degradation in Tc-zero after 30 min immersion in water. The properties of the surface layer of Y–Ba–Cu–O oxide after HF treatment are reported from Auger electron spectroscopy, x-ray diffraction, and scanning electron microscopy studies.
