In this book we have collected a series of state-of-the art papers written by specialists in the field of ionic liquid crystals (ILCs) to address key questions concerning the synthesis, properties, and applications of ILCs. New compounds exhibiting ionic liquid crystalline phases are presented, both of calamitic as well as discotic type. Their dynamic and structural properties have been investigated with a series of experimental techniques including differential scanning calorimetry, polarized optical spectroscopy, X-ray scattering, and nuclear magnetic resonance, impedance spectroscopy to mention but a few. Moreover, computer simulations using both fully atomistic and highly coarse-grained force fields have been presented, offering an invaluable microscopic view of the structure and dynamics of these fascinating materials.

In this book we have collected a series of state-of-the art papers written by specialists in the field of ionic liquid crystals (ILCs) to address key questions concerning the synthesis, properties, and applications of ILCs. New compounds exhibiting ionic liquid crystalline phases are presented, both of calamitic as well as discotic type. Their dynamic and structural properties have been investigated with a series of experimental techniques including differential scanning calorimetry, polarized optical spectroscopy, X-ray scattering, and nuclear magnetic resonance, impedance spectroscopy to mention but a few. Moreover, computer simulations using both fully atomistic and highly coarse-grained force fields have been presented, offering an invaluable microscopic view of the structure and dynamics of these fascinating materials.

Supercapacitors are a relatively new energy storage system that provides higher energy density than dielectric capacitors and higher power density than batteries. They are particularly suited to applications that require energy pulses during short periods of time, e.g., seconds or tens of seconds. They are recommended for automobiles, tramways, buses, cranes, fork-lifts, wind turbines, electricity load leveling in stationary and transportation systems, etc. Despite the technological maturity of supercapacitors, there is a lack of comprehensive literature on the topic. Many high performance materials have been developed and new scientific concepts have been introduced. Taking into account the commercial interest in these systems and the new scientific and technological developments now is the ideal time to publish this book, capturing all this new knowledge. The book starts by giving an introduction to the general principles of electrochemistry, the properties of electrochemical capacitors, and electrochemical characterization techniques. Electrical double layer capacitors and pseudocapacitors are then discussed, followed by the various electrolyte systems. Modelling, manufacture of industrial capacitors, constraints, testing, and reliability as well as applications are also covered. 'Supercapacitors - Materials, Systems, and Applications' is part of the series on Materials for Sustainable Energy and Development edited by Prof. G.Q. Max Lu. The series covers advances in materials science and innovation for renewable energy, clean use of fossil energy, and greenhouse gas mitigation and associated environmental technologies.

In this book we have collected a series of state-of-the art papers written by specialists in the field of ionic liquid crystals (ILCs) to address key questions concerning the synthesis, properties, and applications of ILCs. New compounds exhibiting ionic liquid crystalline phases are presented, both of calamitic as well as discotic type. Their dynamic and structural properties have been investigated with a series of experimental techniques including differential scanning calorimetry, polarized optical spectroscopy, X-ray scattering, and nuclear magnetic resonance, impedance spectroscopy to mention but a few. Moreover, computer simulations using both fully atomistic and highly coarse-grained force fields have been presented, offering an invaluable microscopic view of the structure and dynamics of these fascinating materials.

Ionic liquids, including the newer subcategory of deep eutectic solvents, continue to attract a great deal of research attention in an even increasing number of areas, including traditional areas such as synthesis (organic and materials), electrochemistry, and physical property studies and predictions, as well as less obvious areas such as lubrication and enzymatic transformations. In this volume, recent advances in a number of these different areas are reported and reviewed, thus granting some appreciation for the future that ionic liquid research holds and affording inspiration for those who have not previously considered the application of ionic liquids in their area of interest.

The second edition is based on the original book, which has been revised, updated and expanded in order to cover the latest information on this rapidly growing field. The book begins with a description of general and electrochemical properties of ionic liquids and continues with a discussion of applications in biochemistry, ionic devices, functional design and polymeric ionic liquids. The new edition includes new chapters on Li ion Batteries and Actuators, as well as a revision of existing chapters to include a discussion on purification and the effects of impurities, adsorption of ionic liquids on interfaces and on the electrochemical double layer, among other topics.

The work focuses on recent developments of the rapidly evolving field of Non-conventional Liquid Crystals. After a concise introduction it discusses the most promising research such as biosensing, elastomers, polymer films , photoresponsive properties and energy harvesting. Besides future applications it discusses as well potential frontiers in LC science and technology.