Electrochemistry

Biography

Biography: Joachim Maier

Abstract

In loose terms chemistry is the chemistry of the perfect state (perfect crystallographic structure) plus chemistry of the excited state (defect structure). The latter is responsible for the electric transport and storage properties. In aqueous solutions this function is taken by H⁺ and OH^- ions as well as dissolved ions. In solids this role is carried out by point defects such as excess (interstitials) and lacking particles (vacancies). It is exactly the consideration of point defect chemistry which is necessary to understand and tune ionic transport phenomena in solids hence forming the bridge between chemistry and electric function. This picture also comprises the electronic transport enabled by excess electrons and electron holes. It is shown how the charge carrier chemistry can be understood, analyzed and varied as a function of stoichiometry and doping not only in the bulk but also at interfaces. Of special interest are size effects on the electronic and ionic carrier concentrations. These defect-chemical considerations directly translate into the electric function in batteries, fuel cells and photo-electrochemical devices. This does not only hold at or near equilibrium, also the kinetic performance depend on such issues. In addition to transport-related questions, the point defects are most relevant acid-base or redox-active centers and are thus of central significance, not only for transport, but also for reaction kinetics and catalysis. A selection of applied examples such as storage modes in batteries, reaction kinetics in fuel cells or transport effect in photo-perovskites will be addressed.