High-rate discharge of poly 3-methylthiophene cathodes in inorganic electrolytes

Abstract

Lithium cells with thin film electrodes of poly 3-methylthiophene were discharged at high current densities in electrolytes containing either sulphur dioxide, thionyl chloride, or sulphuryl chloride. Highest capactiy was obtained with thionyl chloride electrolyte for current densities as high as 30 mA cm⁻² (up to 600 W cm⁻³). Cells containing sulphur dioxide electrolyte were rechargeable, but constant current discharge performance was less than in either thionyl chloride or sulphuryl chloride. However, pulse discharge in sulphur dioxide permitted comparable power densities to be achieved, and reproducible results were obtained over many cycles.