4.5 Conclusions

While a well-defined mechanism has yet to be achieved, the ability to modulate the superconducting properties of YBa₂Cu₃O_7-x has been demonstrated.  If future evidence can be found to explain this modulation of superconductivity by the proximity effect, these hybrid YBa₂Cu₃O_7-x / polypyrrole assemblies will provide the initial evidence which supports this mechanism.  The sensitivity of high temperature superconductors to environmental degradation has been overcome to form conducting polymer assemblies which demonstrate good electron transfer in electrochemical solutions.  These assemblies display the novel effect of modulating superconductivity, which may provide the foundation for future hybrid applications.