Abstract: A method for infiltrating a metal salt into a porous structure is described wherein the pores of the porous structure are first flooded with a solvent before contacting the salt mixture to the structure. In one embodiment the metal salt is in molten form when brought into contact with the flooded porous structure. In another embodiment, the metal salt is first brought into contact with the porous structure, and the mixture heated to melt the salt and evaporate the solvent. Thereafter the metal salt can be further reacted to convert it to a desired composition.

Abstract: A method of forming a composite (e.g., a mixed electrode) by infiltration of a porous structure (e.g., one formed from an ionically conductive material) with a solution of a precursor (e.g., for an electronically conductive material) results in a particulate layer on and within the porous structure with a single infiltration. The method involves forming a solution comprising at least one metal salt and a surfactant; heating the solution to substantially evaporate solvent and form a concentrated salt and surfactant solution; infiltrating the concentrated solution into a porous structure to create a composite; and heating the composite to substantially decompose the salt and surfactant to oxide and/or metal particles. The result is a particulate layer on the pore walls of the porous structure. In some instances the particulate layer is a continuous network. Corresponding devices have improved properties and performance.