Distribution of relaxation times : Foundations, methods, diagnostics, and prognosis for electrochemical systems

Title data

Wang, Zilong ; Wang, Yuhao ; Ciucci, Francesco:
Distribution of relaxation times : Foundations, methods, diagnostics, and prognosis for electrochemical systems.
In: Current Opinion in Electrochemistry. Vol. 55 (2026) . - 101789.
ISSN 2451-9103
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.coelec.2025.101789

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Abstract in another language

The distribution of relaxation times (DRT) has become an indispensable technique for interpreting electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. This review traces the evolution of DRT from a powerful deconvolution tool for gaining mechanistic insights into a predictive engine for diagnostics and state estimation in fields such as batteries and fuel cells. The technique’s intuitive appeal is challenged by its mathematically ill-posed nature, creating a “credibility gap” where subjective choices can yield misleading artifacts. Recent methodological advances in Bayesian and entropy-based frameworks provide greater robustness and uncertainty quantification. The path forward requires establishing a comprehensive analytical ecosystem built on community standards, benchmark datasets, and transparent reporting. This current opinion urges the community to embrace rigor and transform DRT from a specialized, expert-level tool into a reliable and reproducible cornerstone of electrochemical analysis.