Abstract: A composite electrolyte material having increased ionic conductivity and suppressed electronic conductivity is provided. The composite electrolyte includes a first material exhibiting both ionic conductivity and electronic conductivity and a second material having electron trapping sites on the outer surface thereof. The first material is coated on the second material, or the second material is dispersed within the first material, and an electron depletion zone is created at interfaces between the first and second materials. The electrons trapped in the electron depletion zone do not contribute to the electronic conductivity of the composite electrolyte, and the ratio of ionic conductivity to electronic conductivity of the composite electrolyte is higher than that of the first material alone.

Abstract: A susceptor for a microwave hybrid heating system is provided, including a hollow member made of a heat resistant material that does not substantially absorb or reflect microwave energy at room temperature and a substance contained within the hollow member. The substance substantially immediately couples to microwave energy at room temperature to form a plasma that emits radiant energy substantially immediately. A microwave hybrid heating system and a continuous microwave hybrid heating system including at least one susceptor according to the present invention are provided, as well as a method for sintering ceramic members using a microwave hybrid heating system according to the present invention.