Episode 31: Ionic Conduction

Diffusion is when atoms move through a material in response to a concentration gradient. However, some ions can move through a material in response to an electric field and can do so very quickly! Even more remarkable, the motion of ions can be restricted to ions of a certain type such as O2-, H+, Na+, Li+ etc. What is required of a material in order for it to be an ionic conductor? What technologies do ionic conductors make possible? Why are they necessary for batteries, fuel cells, sensors, electrolyzer, and more? We answer these questions and dive into the exciting recent news of solid-state batteries in this episode. We cover some of the key fast ion conductors like YSZ, BASE, LSGM, Nafion, LLZO, and NaSiCON. This episode is sponsored by Matmatch. Check out how they can help you find the perfect material for your next engineering project! This episode is also sponsored by Materials Today, an Elsevier community dedicated to the creation and sharing of materials science knowledge and experience through their peer-reviewed journals, academic conferences, educational webinars, and more. Also a special thanks to ACerS Energy Materials and Systems Division sponsoring this episode. Thanks to Kolobyte and Alphabot for letting us use their music in the show! If you have questions or feedback please send us emails at materialism.podcast@gmail.com or connect with us on social media: Instagram, Twitter. Materialism Team: Taylor Sparks (co-host, co-creator), Andrew Falkowski (co-creator), Jared Duffy (production and editing), Ramsey Issa (co-host and editing assistance). Keywords: ionic ions conductor electrical current electron electrolytes fuel cells holes conductivity batteries solid-state Support Materialism: A Materials Science Podcast by contributing to their Tip Jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/materialism

Om Podcasten

In this podcast, Taylor and Andrew investigate the past, present, and future of materials science and engineering. Topic areas ranging from cutting edge materials technology, the history of different materials, the commercialization of new materials, and exciting advances in processing and characterization are all covered in detail. Our episodes include things like the unlikely discovery of superglue or teflon, the fascinating backstories about modern biomaterials like dialysis filters, and updates on new technologies including wearable electronics, next generation batteries, and nanomaterials. In short, we hope to help listeners understand the critical role that materials have played in society and even glimpse into what the future may hold for new materials.