Ionicmetallic

Ionicmetallic is a term in materials science for solids that show both ionic diffusion and metallic electronic conduction. In such materials, mobile ions migrate through a host that also supports a delocalized electron system. This mixed ionic–electronic conductivity places ionicmetallic materials between solid electrolytes and metals and is used to discuss emerging materials and devices.

Structural motifs combine ion diffusion pathways with a conductive framework. This may be a lattice with interstitial sites and a metal-like sublattice, or defect-rich regions supporting electrons. Achieving stable phases that retain both transport channels under operating conditions is a primary design challenge.

Transport characterization aims to separate ionic and electronic contributions, using impedance spectroscopy and conductivity measurements. An ideal ionicmetallic material would show appreciable ionic conductivity at practical temperatures and measurable electronic conductivity, enabling true mixed conduction for devices such as solid-state batteries and sensors.

Synthesis approaches include high-temperature solid-state routes, spark plasma sintering, and stabilization of metastable phases. Key issues are redox stability, grain boundary effects, and interface compatibility with electrodes, all of which influence the balance between ion and electron transport.

The term is not yet standardized; researchers often categorize such materials as mixed ionic–electronic conductors or related classes. Nonetheless, ionicmetallic provides a framework for discussing materials that aim to combine fast ion transport with metallic conduction for advanced energy and sensing technologies.