Experimental observation of nonlinear ionic transport at the nanometer scale

Diego Krapf1, Bernadette M Quinn, Meng-Yue Wu

  • 1Kavli Institute of Nanoscience, Delft University of Technology, Lorentzweg 1, 2628 CJ Delft, The Netherlands.

Nano Letters
|November 9, 2006
PubMed
Summary

High ion flux at nanometer-sized electrodes causes nonlinear transport, challenging conventional theories. This study reveals unique ion behavior in nanoscale electrochemical systems.

Related Concept Videos

Controlled-Potential Coulometry: Electrolytic Methods01:17

Controlled-Potential Coulometry: Electrolytic Methods

Controlled-potential coulometry, also known as potentiostatic coulometry, employs a three-electrode system in which the working electrode's potential is precisely regulated using a potentiostat. Platinum working electrodes are utilized for positive potentials, while mercury pool electrodes are favored for extremely negative potentials. The platinum counter electrode is separated from the analyte using a membrane or salt bridge to avoid interference in the analysis.
The chosen potential ensures...
Theory of Metallic Conduction01:17

Theory of Metallic Conduction

The conduction of free electrons inside a conductor is best described by quantum mechanics. However, a classical model makes predictions close to the results of quantum mechanics. It is called the theory of metallic conduction.
In this theory, Newton's second law of motion is used to determine the acceleration of an electron in the presence of an applied electric field. Then, its velocity is expressed via this acceleration.
An electron moves through the crystal, containing positive ions,...
Transport Number01:31

Transport Number

The transport number is the fraction of the total current carried by an ion in an electrolyte solution. It is defined as the ratio of the current carried by a specific ion to the total current flowing through the solution. The transport number, t, is central to understanding ionic mobility, which describes how fast an ion moves under the influence of an electric field. This link connects the physical behavior of ions in solution to the chemical processes that occur during electrochemical...