Direct observation of space-charge-induced electric fields at oxide grain boundaries

Satoko Toyama, Takehito Seki (), Bin Feng (), Yuichi Ikuhara and Naoya Shibata ()
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Satoko Toyama: The University of Tokyo, 2-11-16, Yayoi Bunkyo
Takehito Seki: The University of Tokyo, 2-11-16, Yayoi Bunkyo
Bin Feng: The University of Tokyo, 2-11-16, Yayoi Bunkyo
Yuichi Ikuhara: The University of Tokyo, 2-11-16, Yayoi Bunkyo
Naoya Shibata: The University of Tokyo, 2-11-16, Yayoi Bunkyo

Nature Communications, 2024, vol. 15, issue 1, 1-9

Abstract: Abstract Space charge layers (SCLs) formed at grain boundaries (GBs) are considered to critically influence the properties of polycrystalline materials such as ion conductivities. Despite the extensive researches on this issue, the presence of GB SCLs and their relationship with GB orientations, atomic-scale structures and impurity/solute segregation behaviors remain controversial, primarily due to the difficulties in directly observing charge distribution at GBs. In this study, we directly observe electric field distribution across the well-defined yttria-stabilized zirconia (YSZ) GBs by tilt-scan averaged differential phase contrast scanning transmission electron microscopy. Our observation clearly reveals the existence of SCLs across the YSZ GBs with nanometer precision, which are significantly varied depending on the GB orientations and the resultant core atomic structures. Moreover, the magnitude of SCLs show a strong correlation with yttrium segregation amounts. This study provides critical insights into the complex interplay between SCLs, orientations, atomic structures and segregation of GBs in ionic crystals.

Date: 2024
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DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-53014-w

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