Doppler-broadened annihilation radiation spectra have been measured as a function of temperature from 77 K to 300 K, for several high temperature oxide superconductors viz single-phase YBCO, single- and mixed-phase Tl-Ca-Ba-Cu-O and Bi-Ca-Sr-Cu-O compounds. The temperature-dependent parameters extracted respond to a change at the onset of superconducting transition. The observations point to involvement of oxygen valence electrons at the onset of superconducting transition. Also a possible structural change and/or increase in electron density at the oxygen vacancy/defect sites seem to accompany the transition. In addition, the parameters derived are seen to be sensitive to the presence of more than one superconducting phases in mixed phase samples.

A glass of composition similar to that found in fireclay refractories was synthesized and subsequently nucleated with Cr₂O₃, V₂O₅ and TiO₂. These glasses were heat-treated for crystallization of the mullite phase. The mullite content, the crystallization of mullite and the effect of temperature on the rate were investigated. The concentration of the nucleating oxides and the size and charge of their cations influence both the mullite content obtained and the crystallization rate.

Poor-grade fireclay products contain substantial amount of glass. A glass of similar composition was synthesized, nucleated and heat-treated for crystallization of mullite. The size and size-distribution of mullite crystals, the rate of change of size and the aspect ratio of the crystals were investigated in relation to the nucleating agents and temperature.