Ceramic science of crystal defect cores

Point defects, dislocations, grain boundaries and interfaces are always involved in ceramic microstructures play important roles for physical chemical properties of ceramics. Currently, proper control these crystal defects is inevitable to tailor materials with superior properties. This article reviews recent research projects on distinct phenomena ceramics due defects. In particular, we would like emphasize importance central core regions namely, “crystal defect cores”. They have specific electronic atomic structures that different from those bulk. Recent advances nanoscale characterizations theoretical calculations make it possible acquire a variety quantitative data enclosed at the crystal-defect cores, which gives clear understanding various levels.