Mass diffusion phenomena in cerium oxide

Mass diffusion in the solid state is the way materials are structured from the atomic level to the macroscale, controlling the evolution of composition and microstructure, thus governing final properties and functionalities. In ceria and its solid solutions, solid-state diffusion controls grain size, boundary composition, surface, and interfaces, accordingly influencing sintering characteristics; densification/porosity; and, eventually, final properties, such as surface chemical reactivity, electrical conductivity, and mechanical performances.