Abstract
Electrical conductivity measurements are the major source of experimental information on point defects and matter transport in ionic solids. A review of these measurements is presented which includes a brief historical summary, a description of the current experimental procedures and the methods of data analysis. Particular attention is focused on the computer least-squares method of determining accurate defect parameters from experimental results. Some examples from the recent literature are discussed, including work on well studied systems, such as the alkali halides, and on lithium oxide. The very recent work on this latter material outlines the role of conductivity measurements in modern defect investigations of ionic solids.