Electrode polarization in dielectric measurements: a review

In this review, we present an overview of the state of the art concerning the fundamental properties of electrode polarization (EP) of interest in the measurement of high conductivity samples and its implications for both dielectric (DS) and impedance spectroscopy (IS). Initially a detailed description of what constitutes EP is provided and the problems that it induces. Then, we review some of the more popular models that have been used to describe the physical phenomena behind the formation of the ionic double layer. Following this we shall enumerate the common strategies used historically to correct its influence on the measured signals in DS or in IS. Finally we also review recent attempts to employ fractal electrodes to bypass the effects of EP and to offer some physical explanation as to the limitations of their use.