Defects and matter transport in solid materials

The role of defects in matter transport through solid materials is discussed and the nature of the principal types of point and extended defects, as well as the evidence for their existence, is examined. The equations governing the participation of defects in ionic conduction and diffusion are developed from first principles as is the relationship between these processes. The experimental methods available for the measurement of matter transport in solid materials and the techniques used for effective data analyses are described. Finally the current level of knowledge of diffusion processes in a range of different types of solids is reviewed.