α-Na3M2(PO4)3 (M = Ti, Fe): absolute cationic ordering in NASICON-type phases.

The structure of the fully ordered α-Na(3)Ti(2)(PO(4))(3) NASICON compound was elucidated using high-quality single-crystal data. The cation/vacancy distribution forms a homogeneous 3D arrangement and could represent the absolute cationic ordering available in the full Na(3)M(2)(PO(4))(3) series, as verified for M = Fe. For M = Ti, the reversible α → γ transition was observed at 85 °C, leading to the standard disordered R ̅3c γ model. Through JPDF analysis, the most probable Na(+) zigzag M(2)-M(1) diffusion scheme was directly deduced using our accurate crystallographic data.

Characterization of self-healing glassy composites by high-temperature environmental scanning electron microscopy (HT-ESEM).

In situ high-temperature healing of cracks in composites made of glass and vanadium boride (VB) particles was observed using an environmental scanning electron microscope equipped with a high-temperature chamber (HT-ESEM). HT-ESEM is an adequate tool for studying the self-healing property of these materials. The change in crack length as a function of redox atmospheric conditions is reported. No self-healing behaviour was observed under reducing conditions, while a complete and rapid healing of the cracks was measured under oxidizing conditions. HT-ESEM image analyses enabled the monitoring of the healing effect. The self-healing mechanism was identified as a consequence of the VB active particles oxidation and subsequent pouring of fluid oxides into the cracks. These innovative composites offer an interesting potential in the domain of solid oxide fuel cell sealants.