Electronic, Ionic, and Mixed Conduction in Polymeric Systems

Polymers that simultaneously transport electrons and ions are paramount to drive the technological advances necessary for next-generation electrochemical devices, including energy storage devices and bioelectronics. However, efforts to describe the motion of ions or electrons separately within polymeric systems become inaccurate when both species are present. Herein, we highlight the basic transport equations necessary to rationalize mixed transport and the multiscale material properties that influence their transport coefficients. Potential figures of merit that enable a suitable performance benchmark in mixed conducting systems independent of end application are discussed. Practical design and implementation of mixed conducting polymers require an understanding of the evolving nature of structure and transport with ionic and electronic carrier density to capture the dynamic disorder inherent in polymeric materials.

Automated summary

Polymers that can transport electrons and ions simultaneously are crucial for advancing next-generation electrochemical devices. Understanding the basic transport equations and multiscale material properties is necessary to rationalize mixed transport and discuss potential figures of merit. Practical design and implementation of mixed conducting polymers require an understanding of the evolving nature of structure and transport with ionic and electronic carrier density.