Electrochemistry of polyacetylene, (CH)x. Characteristics of the reduced polyacetylene electrode

Abstract

The coulombic efficiency, stability, constant-current discharge characteristics, energy density, power density and the relation of cell potential to degree of reduction of a partly reduced polyacetylene cathode, [Li⁺_y(CH^y–)]_x(y⩽ 0.1), in a cell of the type [Li⁺_y(CH^y–)]_x|LiClO₄(tetrahydrofuran)|Li have been investigated. Coulombic efficiencies of ca. 100% are found at reduction levels up to 10 mol%. In its completely charged state the cell consists of parent, neutral (CH)_x which appears to be stable indefinitely in the electrolyte. In the discharged state the [Li⁺_y(CH^y–)]_x cathode also appears to be stable indefinitely in the electrolyte up to 7 mol% reduction, the highest level at which long-term stability studies have been carried out. Energy densities of ca. 201 W h kg^–1(based on the weights of the electroactive materials involved in the discharge process) are obtained for 10 mol% reduced polyacetylene cathodes under constant-current discharge conditions. Maximum power densities of ca. 2900 W kg^–1 are observed.