Abstract
The application of X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) to the study of diffusion properties of oxide glasses and glass surfaces is considered. Mixed alkali silicates, the chemical resistance of iron-lead-phosphate glasses and the surface structure of uranium in leached borosilicate glasses are discussed. Results are interpreted using the modified random network (MRN) model. The importance of combining XAS with diffusion measurements and structural modelling is stressed if the interdependence of structure and ionic transport is to be properly elucidated.