Conductivity of Beta-Alumina and Its Dependence on Sodium and Magnesium Content

Abstract

The relationship between conductivity and sodium content has been investigated for sintered beta‐alumina containing . Conductivities of , , and were found for material containing 1, 2, and 4% , respectively, with optimum sodium content. Experimental conductivities for 1 and 2% agree well with calculated values asuming one additional sodium ion for each magnesium ion present. Resistance measurements were made in the frequency range 0.75–10 kHz, and conductivities were calculated from resistances extrapolated to infinite frequency. Electrode contact was made using thin films of silver and gold following glow discharge cleaning techniques.