Solid electrolyte (Rb₄Cu₁₆I₇Cl₁₃)-electrode (Se) interface study of galvanic cell by ESCA

Abstract

A galvanic cell is fabricated in pellet form with a configuration Cu + X/X/Se+C (where X = Rb₄Cu₁₆I₇Cl₁₃). The galvanic cell shows an open circuit voltage (V_oc) of about 380 mV and short circuit current (I_sc) of about 11 mA. ESCA study of X/Se interface is carried out for selenium electrode surface by making a separate Se pellet. Undischarged and discharged cells (for 30 min and 540 min) are studied at two depths. The undischarged Se surface shows no change in BE of Se 3d_5/2. But on 30 min of discharge a small shoulder is seen towards lower BE side. After 540 min of discharge, the peak shifts to lower binding energy side indicating the presence of some lower oxide. Cu 2p_3/2 peak, which is seen distorted at half an hour discharge surface, is seen woth a quite good intensity after 540 min of discharge surface and even in depth at the Se electrode.