Thermochemistry and electrical contact properties at the interface between semiconducting BaTiO₃ and (Au-Ti) electrodes

The interfacial characteristics of positive temperature coefficient of resistance (PTCR) BaTiO₃-electrode interfaces were studied. Sessile drop wetting experiments in combination with measurements of the contact resistance of the interface were used to establish a fundamental perspective of the electrode-ceramic interface. It was shown that the thermodynamic work of adhesion (W_ad), which is the sum of the strengths of chemical interactions present at the interface, can be manipulated by the addition of chemically active elements to the electrode metal which enhance adhesion. This same procedure is shown to modify the important electrical interfacial properties such as the contact resistance.