Bi-2223 superconductors with silver additions are synthesized by sol-gel process. The effect of silver on the formation of Bi-2223 phase is studied. The addition of silver brings down the reaction temperature as well as annealing time for the formation of Bi-2223 phase. The presence of silver affects the Tc of the Bi-2212 phase. The heat treatment of silver added Bi-2223 samples above 1113 K show poor superconducting properties due to partial melting of Bi-2223 phase. © 1998 Chapman & Hall.