High power organic cathodes using thin films of electropolymerized benzidine polymers

Abstract

Thin films of benzidine polymers were electrochemically deposited directly onto conductive substrates by oxidative coupling of di- and trianilinoalkane monomers. The electropolymerization and electrochemical properties of the polymers were optimized by varying the alkyl linker. Polymer films exhibited two reversible one-electron transfers at high potentials (>3.3 V vs. Li/Li⁺) and maintained discharge capacities in excess of 150 mA h g⁻¹ even when discharged in under 4 seconds.