electrolii

Electrolii are a term used in electrochemical theory to denote a proposed class of charge-delocalized ionic species that are predicted to form at electrode–electrolyte interfaces. They are described as transient, multisite clusters that arise under specific combinations of potential, solvent, and ionic composition, distinct from simple ions or traditional ion pairs.

In concept, electrolii are envisioned as assemblies in which charge is distributed over several centers, such as multiple metal sites or coordinated solvent molecules, rather than localized on a single ion. This delocalization can modify interfacial properties, including charge transfer kinetics, reorganization energy, and the structure of the electrical double layer. Because of their proposed delocalized nature, electrolii may influence the effective conductivity and capacitance of the interface in ways that differ from conventional models of ion transport.

Formation and stability of electrolii are considered to depend on interfacial structure, strong electric fields, specific electrolyte compositions, and transient states during redox processes. They are typically discussed in the context of advanced simulations and specialized spectroscopic observations, with lifetimes that can range from extremely short to relatively longer transient states. The evidence for electrolii remains debated, and they are not universally accepted as a distinct, observable species in most systems.

If validated, electrolii could prompt revisions to interfacial models used in batteries, supercapacitors, and electroplating, potentially informing new electrolyte designs that optimize charge transfer. See also electrolytes, interfacial electrochemistry, double layer, electron transfer.