The organic-inorganic polyaniline/V2O5 system -: Application as a high-capacity hybrid cathode for rechargeable lithium batteries

Thr application of a hybrid polyaniline/V2O5 cathode material in reversible lithium electrochemical cells is reported, We have studied the influence of synthesis conditions and subsequent treatments of this hybrid electrode under oxygen in order to optimize its performance as a lithium-insertion cathode. The temperature and duration of this treatment are key parameters in determining the final specific charge of the cathode. The optimal material yielded a specific charge as high as 302 Ah/kg measured at a low discharge rate (C/48) corresponding to the insertion of 2.72 lithium ions per formula unit (C6H4N)(0.6)V2O5. 0.3H(2)O). Higher scan rates of C/12 lead to specific capacities of 200 Ah/kg. The thermal and electrochemical stability of the hybrid electrode, especially in relation to the decomposition of the organic polymer and its effect on battery performance and cyclability, are also discussed. (C) 1999 The Electrochemical Society. S0013-4651(98)08-027-6. All rights reserved.