Interfaces and Contact Problems

Abstract

At the beginning of this panel discussion, two subjects were introduced for open discussion. The first subject dealt with investigation of the lithium/solid polymer electrolyte interface. Based on A.C. complex plane impedance measuments, passivating layers are believed to be formed on the lithium when in contact with solid polymer electrolytes. During charging, this passivating layer may be responsible for non--uniform lithium deposition which can ultimately lead to dendrite formation. However, since these cells are usually fabricated in quite thin configurations in order to minimize IR drops across the solid polymer electrolyte, the large effective surface areas and resulting low current densities reduce the likelihood of dendrite formation. Several hundred cell cycles are possible. The second subject dealt with investigation of the interface between a polymer electrode and an organic liquid. Based on a number of studies, these polymer electrodes undergo a spontaneous self-discharge process upon standing. An understanding of factors contributing to loss of charge upon standing is crucial to the further development of polymer electrodes.