Advancing electrochemical impedance analysis through innovations in the distribution of relaxation times method

Abstract

Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) is widely used in electrochemistry, energy sciences, biology, and beyond. Analyzing EIS data is crucial, but it often poses challenges because of the numerous possible equivalent circuit models, the need for accurate analytical models, the difficulties of nonlinear regression, and the necessity of managing large datasets within a unified framework. To overcome these challenges, non-parametric models, such as the distribution of relaxation times (DRT, also known as the distribution function of relaxation times, DFRT), have emerged as promising tools for EIS analysis. For example, the DRT can be used to generate equivalent circuit models, initialize regression parameters, provide a time-domain representation of EIS spectra, and identify electrochemical processes. However, mastering the DRT method poses challenges as it requires mathematical and programming proficiency, which may extend beyond experimentalists’ usual expertise. Post-inversion analysis of DRT data can be difficult, especially in accurately identifying electrochemical processes, leading to results that may not always meet expectations. This article examines non-parametric EIS analysis methods, outlining their strengths and limitations from theoretical, computational, and end-user perspectives, and provides guidelines for their future development. Moreover, insights from survey data emphasize the need to develop a large impedance database, akin to an impedance genome. In turn, software development should target one-click, fully automated DRT analysis for multidimensional EIS spectra interpretation, software validation, and reliability. Particularly, creating a collaborative ecosystem hinged on free software could promote innovation and catalyze the adoption of the DRT method throughout all fields that use impedance data.