Superionic behavior in polyethylene-oxide-based single-ion conductors.

We demonstrate superionic ion conduction in simulations of a poly(ethylene oxide)-based polymer electrolyte. The superionic conduction uses cation hopping via chain-like ion aggregates, enabling long-range charge transfer while ions only move locally. The Na single-ion conductor achieves two essential features of superionic metal ion conductors: one-dimensional ion structure and immobile anions. The superionic conduction depends on the number and length of conduction pathways, the conduction pathway lifetime, and the rate at which end ions join and leave the pathway.