Optimization of poly-3-methylthiophene to be used in advance polymer batteries

A kinetic study of the electrogeneration of poly-3-methylthiophene films wa s performed in order to optimize the charge storage ability of the obtained film. The empirical kinetic was obtained by 'ex situ' microgravimetric mon itoring 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 electro lyte. Voltametric studies of the platinum electrode and poly-3-methylthioph ene electrode in the presence and absence of monomer point to a great activ ity, of the solvent, electrolyte and monomer, at 2 V, on both electrodes. T he subsequent decrease on the conductivity of the films was proven with dif ferent water contents. A model of interfacial reactions on bare platinum an d on polymer coated electrodes was proposed according to experimental resul ts. A comparative study of the specific charges achieved when different var iables are changed was developed obtaining the best conditions for the synt hesis of a cathode with very high store capacity. The possibility of the us e of P3MT as anode was also checked. (C) 1999 International Association for Hydrogen Energy. Published by Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.