Fast ion conductor

Physics

Nanotechnology

Electrode

Organic chemistry

Electrical conductor

Diffusion

Ion transporter

Solid-state

Conductivity

Paddle

Physical chemistry

Chemical physics

Composite material

Thermal conduction

Chemistry

Materials science

Quantum mechanics

Electrolyte

Mechanism (biology)

Thermodynamics

Nature Reviews Materials

As an indispensable component in solid-state devices, superionic conductors can exhibit liquid-like and exceptionally high alkali cation conductivity in their crystalline lattices. A fundamental understanding of the nature of superionic behaviour at the atomic level is crucial for exploiting this behaviour in new technologies such as solid-state batteries, but remains a major challenge. Studies of ion transport in numerous materials over the past three decades have provided insight into cation conduction mechanisms. These efforts have mainly emphasized the impact of the static framework on cation diffusivity, whereas the contribution from cation–anion interplay has been largely overlooked. However, recent reports have revealed intriguing observations of the influence of anion rotational dynamics on cation translational processes through the paddle-wheel mechanism. This Review aims to illuminate this rapidly evolving topic, providing a perspective and direction for future breakthroughs. We summarize the polyanion groups that exhibit anion rotational or reorientational features and describe the advanced techniques available for studying the interaction between cation diffusion and anion rotation. Moreover, we identify strategies to stabilize disordered superionic phases at room temperature, thus enabling the paddle-wheel mechanism to be exploited to achieve super-high conductivity in solid electrolytes. The design of superionic conductors necessitates a fundamental understanding of how to invoke fast ion transport in the solid state. This Review discusses the role of framework anion rotational dynamics in enhancing cation diffusion through the paddle-wheel mechanism and its exploitation at room temperature.

Exploiting the paddle-wheel mechanism for the design of fast ion conductors