The Dual Conductivity Test Cell is a versatile, precision-engineered solution for comprehensive conductivity analysis in electrochemical materials. Building on the proven reliability of the standard redox.me Battery Test Cell, this system includes two interchangeable cartridges to provide dual measurement capabilities in a single platform: a) in-plane conductivity cartridge designed for accurate measurement of lateral conductivity across your sample, ideal for characterizing thin films, membranes, and layered materials. Best for materials where lateral (surface) conduction dominates. b) through-plane conductivity cartridge optimized for evaluating vertical conductivity, enabling insights into ion transport across the material thickness, which is critical in real device operation (like in batteries or fuel cells).

This modular design allows researchers to seamlessly switch between measurement modes without changing the base cell, ensuring consistent conditions and reproducible results.

The Dual Conductivity Test Cell can measure both electronic and ionic conductivity, but what it actually detects depends on how you set up the measurement and the material properties. In electronic conductive materials (e.g., graphite, graphene, conductive polymer, metal electrode), it measures the movement of electrons through the material. In ionically conductive materials (e.g., polymer electrolyte, ion-exchange membrane) in hydrated or in an ionically conductive environment, it measures the movement of ions (cations or anions) through the material. In that case, often, you need to condition the sample with a liquid electrolyte or humidify a membrane to allow ions to move. Note that the cell does not inherently distinguish between ionic and electronic conductivity and measures total conductivity. To separate ionic vs. electronic conductivity, you need additional techniques, like a) locking electrodes (e.g., non-reactive metal electrodes to block ion flow), or b) impedance spectroscopy with an appropriate equivalent circuit.

The cell elements are constructed with materials that are inert to the sample (Stainless steel and PEEK, FFKM O-rings). Gold-plated pins ensure good electrical contact. The construction is gas-tight and can be effortlessly assembled in the glove box, reducing possible human error to a minimum.

Application The Dual Conductivity Test Cell is perfect for labs focused on battery materials, membranes, electrodes, and other electrochemical systems, offering both flexibility and high-precision performance. The measured material must be mechanically stable enough to fit into the cartridges and make good contact with the electrodes (liquids or very soft gels are generally not suitable unless confined in a solid matrix). With this setup, you can measure solid or semi-solid electrochemical materials where both in-plane and through-plane conductivity are relevant. Specifically: a) membranes