Conductivity Measurement Using Four Linear Electrodes Embedded Inside a Rectangular Sample

Using solid materials prepared by melting or sintering allows inert metal electrodes to be embedded inside the solid. The I–V relations for four linear electrodes embedded inside a rectangular sample are evaluated. Two cases are considered: (a) a sample with uniform electronic (electron/hole) conductivity and (b) the electron/hole partial current in a sample that is a mixed ionic– electronic conductor with a nonuniform electron/ hole distribution. Equations are derived which allow the determination of the conductivity from four-electrode measurements if a pure electronic conductor is considered or if a mixed ionic– electronic conductor is considered with the ionic current being blocked.