INS characterisation of proton exchange in a ruthenate pyrochlore to understand supercapacitance properties (MAPS)

We propose to make neutron scattering studies of a proton-exchanged ruthenate pyrochlore Ca2Ru2O7 in which calcium ions are replaced by protons. We have shown that this material shows favourable charge storage properties for supercapacitor applications whilst maintaining its crystallinity. In order to understand the mechanism of this process we need to determine the location of protons in the structure, which may be present as hydroxonium ions in various possible locations or as bridging hydroxyls. Neutrons will uniquely allow us to achieve this goal, providing a complementary picture to X-rays that is sensitive to low atomic number elements. The results of our study will pave the way for future in operando studies, ultimately allowing us to optimise the properties of materials for practical application.