• Accepted Paper

Mesoscale engineering of ionic percolation networks in solid-state electrolytes

Yue Zhang, Xinshui Zhang, Zeyu Wang, Tianyi Gao, Hongsheng Shi, Jiameng Yu, Yihang Yang, Qiong Yuan, Wei Liu, and Yi Yu

Phys. Rev. B - Accepted 8 October, 2026

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1103/261f-bvf8

Abstract

Solid-state ionic conductors are pivotal for advancing energy storage technologies, yet their performance is critically governed by mesoscale structural features that influence ionic percolation pathways. In this work, random resistance model is employed to unravel the effects of mesoscopic features, including the size, shape and alignment of grains and pores, on ionic transport percolation networks in polycrystalline ionic conductors. Our simulations reveal that larger grain sizes and vertically aligned columnar grains significantly enhance ionic conductivity by reducing percolation thresholds. Notably, vertically aligned pores further optimize percolation networks, enabling conductivity exceeding that of fully dense materials in specific configurations. By correlating simulated results with experimental data for garnet-type lithium-ion and oxygen-ion conductors, we demonstrate the model’s robustness in predicting structure-property relationships. These insights establish a universal framework for designing high-performance solid electrolytes through mesoscale engineering, with broad implications for batteries, fuel cells, and beyond. 

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