Synthesis and Ion Mobility in Glasses of ZrF4–BiF3–Rb(Cs)F Fluoride Systems

Abstract

A new procedure has been suggested for the synthesis of bismuth fluorozirconate glasses in the ZrF₄–BiF₃–MF systems (M = Rb, Cs), which is based on the use of the relatively moisture-resistant Rb₂ZrF₆ and Cs₂ZrF₆ fluorides rather than extremely hygroscopic rubidium and cesium fluorides. The types of ion motions, trends in ion mobility dynamics, and factors determining this dynamics as a function of the glass composition have been elucidated. A rather high ionic conductivity of glasses above 470 K, σ ≥ 10^–4 S/cm, makes them promising candidates for use in design of functional materials.