Physical electrochemistry of ceramic oxides

After an introductory survey of the industrial needs and demands, the present targets of technological research in the field of ceramic oxide electrodes are outlined. Some fundamental properties of paramount importance are then examined and discussed. They include the mechanism of electrical conduction, the hydration of the oxide layer, its ability to exchange protons with the solution, the electrochemical characterization of the oxide surface, the relationship between degree of intimate mixing and synergistic effects for mixed oxides. The paper ends with an analysis of the factors responsible for the electrocatalytic activity of oxides, providing a clue to the understanding of a generalized mechanism of electrode reaction which can be established for most anodic and cathodic electrocatalytic processes.