Density functional theory of superionic conductors

Abstract
Classical density functional theory is employed to calculate the density distribution of mobile ions in superionic conductors. The system of mobile ions is regarded as a correlated liquid subject to an external potential due to counter-ions, which are held in fixed lattice positions. The theory is applied to the superionic phase of Ag2S. Results for the Ag+ density are in remarkable agreement with molecular dynamics studies by Vashishta and coworkers (1985). The findings suggest that correlations within the Ag+ subsystem play an essential role in determining the structure of conduction paths.