Thermal-sprayed, thin-film pyrite cathodes for thermal batteries-discharge-rate and temperature studies in single cells

Using an optimized thermal-spray process, coherent, dense deposits of pyrite (FeS/sub 2/) with good adhesion were formed on 304 stainless steel substrates (current collectors). After leaching with CS/sub 2/ to remove residual free sulfur, these served as cathodes in Li(Si)/FeS/sub 2/ thermal cells. The cells were tested over a temperature range of 450/spl deg/C to 550/spl deg/C under baseline loads of 125 and 250 mA/cm/sup 2/, to simulate conditions found in a thermal battery. Cells built with such cathodes outperformed standard cells made with pressed-powder parts. They showed lower interfacial resistance and polarization throughout discharge, with higher capacities per mass of pyrite. Post-treatment of the cathodes with Li/sub 2/O coatings at levels of >7% by weight of the pyrite was found to eliminate the voltage transient normally observed for these materials. Results equivalent to those of standard lithiated catholytes were obtained in this manner. The use of plasma-sprayed cathodes allows the use of much thinner cells for thermal batteries since only enough material needs to be deposited as the capacity requirements of a given application demand.