Glassy and polymeric ionic conductors : statistical modeling and Monte Carlo simulations

Stochastic semi-microscopic models for glassy and polymer ion conductors provide a framework for understanding a variety of experimental transport properties in these materials. In the case of glasses we discuss effects of counter ions and propose a mechanism for constant dielectric loss in terms of a dipolar lattice gas. The behavior of glasses is put into contrast to polymeric systems, where ions are diffusing through a fluctuating host medium. A lattice model based on specific cation-polymer interactions allows us to deduce diffusion properties as a function of temperature, pressure and salt content, consistent with experimental observations on polyethylene-oxide(PEO)/salt complexes. Directions for future research, based on an extension of the above models and also by further coarse-graining are pointed out