New Cathode Material for High Energy-Density Batteries
Abstract
The investigation of semiconductor cathode materials for organic- electrolyte batteries was continued, with emphasis on the development of higher- rate porous plates containing n-type cadmium fluoride as the active ingredient. The problem of maintaining electronic contact through a porous semiconductor of high energy gap was examined in some detail from a fundamental viewpoint, and a systematic approach to the selection of current-collector additives was devised. Experimentally, the discharge characteristics of miniature porous CdF2 cathodes in 0.1 M TMA.PF6-PC were compared with those of a single-crystal electrode which served, on a weight basis, as a high-performance standard. The additive materials were indium-tin solder, graphite, cadmium, sputtered aluminum, and four compounds capable of existing as n-type semiconductors: ZnS, ZnSe, CdSe, and In2O3. The best cathode formulation contained CdF2, In-Sn, In2O3, and a polystyrene binder. With a discharge potential of 1.1 v vs Li/Li(t) and a utilization efficiency of 38% in approx 11 hr, the performance of this electrode was comparable to that of more advanced plate structures containing semiconductive Ni3S2.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 31, 1974
- Accession Number
- ADB000985
Entities
People
- Margie M. Nicholson