Chapter 14: NMR Diffusometry for the Study of Energy-related Soft Materials

Soft materials used in energy-related applications represent a growing area of research, prompting the need for detailed understanding of transport of ions, water, and other mobile molecules. NMR diffusometry enables unparalleled specificity in characterizing molecular transport over a wide range of length and time scales, and with fine chemical recognition of distinct moving species. In this chapter, we focus on our group's analyses of a selection of energy-related soft materials, including polymer electrolyte membranes, organic ionic plastic crystals, and ion-containing gels. We highlight strategies for high fidelity NMR diffusometry on these materials, as well as using complementary observations with NMR spectroscopy and relaxation techniques. Building on previous NMR diffusometry studies on soft materials over the last 50 years, we see opportunities for technique improvement and greater application in the broader science and engineering communities.