Diffuse neutron scattering studies were made of a single crystal of Ba0.84La0.16F2.16 at temperatures ranging from 600 to 1000C. The results confirmed that the defects formed clusters and cluster aggregates, the concentration of which decreased upon heating. The data yielded information concerning local lattice deformations, and suggested that the mobile F ions moved in the closest proximity to clusters; in agreement with the enhanced ionic motion model. Quenching was shown to affect the defect structure and the ionic conductivity.

F.Kadlec, F.Moussa, P.Simon, G.Gruener, B.P.Sobolev: Materials Science and Engineering B, 1999, 57[3], 234-40