Transference number approaching unity in nanocomposite electrolytes.

Abstract

In a nanocomposite electrolyte, which is made of a dielectric solid and an electrolyte, the diffuse double layer can retain counter-ions and reject co-ions. The axial external field can then interact to produce hydrodynamic flow. If the radius of the nanocapillaries is on the same order as the Debye length of the electrolyte, the transference number of an ion can approach unity, eliminating concentration gradients. Nanocomposite electrolytes are therefore suggested for battery and fuel cell applications where the transference number of the transported ion approaches unity, thus eliminating concentration gradients and reducing energy losses.