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Structure, properties and production of β-alumina

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Abstract

The crystal structures of the β-alumina compositions have been described and used to explain the fast ion transport for which these materials are renowned. Measured values of both the single crystal and polycrystalline ionic conductivity show a wide variation; this is explained in terms of the range of chemical compositions of the β-alumina system and also the variety of measuring techniques used. Dopants or impurity ions can have a significant effect on the physical properties of the β-aluminas. The ionic conductivity, the stability of the material and the densification during sintering have been considered in relation to the nature and level of a range of dopants described in the literature. The optimization of the ionic and mechanical properties has been achieved by development of the fabrication techniques and it is this which accounts for much of the present research. Thus the many different methods of producing both single and polycrystalline material have been described, including the range of sintering routes currently available. The advantages and disadvantages of each production route in terms of the resulting properties have also been discussed.

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  1. Department of Ceramics, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK

    R. Stevens & J. G. P. Binner

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  1. R. Stevens
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Stevens, R., Binner, J.G.P. Structure, properties and production of β-alumina. J Mater Sci 19, 695–715 (1984). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00540440

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