The mechanisms of thionyl chloride reduction at solid electrodes

An experimental technique has been devised which allows in situ sampling of electrolyte from a functioning LiSOCl sub(2) cell, followed by rapid FTIR analysis for soluble reaction products. Disulfur monoxide (S sub(2)O) is observed as an intermediate discharge product. The half-life of S sub(2)O is estimated to be about 20 min. The presence of S sub(2)O is consistent with sulfur chemistry, as well as the accepted stoichiometry of the Li-SOCl sub(2) battery system. A possible safety hazard for low temperature discharges of Li-SOCl sub(2) cells is identified.