International Journal of Hydrogen Energy, Vol.25, No.3, 221-233, 2000
Optimization of poly-3-methylthiophene to be used in advance polymer batteries
A kinetic study of the electrogeneration of poly-3-methylthiophene films was performed in order to optimize the charge storage ability of the obtained film. The empirical kinetic was obtained by 'ex situ' microgravimetric monitoring of the polymer oxidized film. The obtained kinetic equation Rp = k [monomer](0.6) [N(Bu)(4)ClO4](0.75) shows a strong influence of the electrolyte. Voltametric studies of the platinum electrode and poly-3-methylthiophene electrode in the presence and absence of monomer point to a great activity, of the solvent, electrolyte and monomer, at 2 V, on both electrodes. The subsequent decrease on the conductivity of the films was proven with different water contents. A model of interfacial reactions on bare platinum and on polymer coated electrodes was proposed according to experimental results. A comparative study of the specific charges achieved when different variables are changed was developed obtaining the best conditions for the synthesis of a cathode with very high store capacity. The possibility of the use of P3MT as anode was also checked.
Keywords:RECHARGEABLE LITHIUM BATTERIES;CONDUCTING POLYMERS;ELECTROCHEMICAL POLYMERIZATION;SYNTHESIZED POLYPYRROLE;ELECTROGENERATION;ACETONITRILE;POLYANILINE;ELECTRODE;FILMS;CELLS