Novel Composition Above the Limit of Bi:Zr Solid Solution; Synthesis and Physical Properties of Bi_(1.33)Zr_(0.67)O_(3+δ)

摘要

Complete incorporation of Zr in the fluorite related β_(Ⅲ)-Bi_2O_3 structure, confirmed by X-ray powder diffraction, has produced a phase with a significant substitution of x = 0.67 in the Bi_(2-x)Zr_xO_(3+δ) solid solution. This sample presents superior ionic conductivity than those predicted by an earlier study. Its thermal evolution has been studied and phase transitions associated to changes in conductivity have been characterised. The sample shows a segregation of a mixture of predominantly γ-Bi_2O_3 and approximately 30% of the ZrCO_2, before total reincorporation of the Zr in the high temperature δ phase.