Open-Circuit Voltage Comes from Non-Equilibrium Thermodynamics

Originally derived by Walther Nernst more than a century ago, the Nernst equation for the opencircuit voltage is a cornerstone in the analysis of electrochemical systems. Unfortunately, the assumptions behind its derivation are often overlooked in the literature, leading to incorrect forms of the equation when applied to complex systems (for example, those with ion-exchange membranes or involving mixed potentials). Such flaws can be avoided by applying a correct thermodynamic derivation independently of the form in which the electrochemical reactions are written. The proper derivation of the Nernst equation becomes important, for instance, in modeling of vanadium redox flow batteries or zinc-air batteries. The rigorous path towards the Nernst equation derivation starts in non-equilibrium thermodynamics.

Automated summary

The Nernst equation, originally derived by Walther Nernst more than a century ago, is a cornerstone in the analysis of electrochemical systems. However, the assumptions behind its derivation are often overlooked in the literature, leading to incorrect forms of the equation when applied to complex systems. Proper thermodynamic derivation is important, especially in modeling vanadium redox flow batteries or zinc-air batteries.