Semiconductor-dispersed polymer electrolyte composites

Composites of polyethylene oxide (PEO)/NH4I polymer electrolyte dispersed with semiconductors PbS, CdS and PbxCd1−xS in different weight ratios have been prepared and characterised. Relevant amount of Pb and/or Cd acetates were added to a viscous solution of polymer PEO/NH4I complex. On sulfuration by bubbling H2S through it, the in situ formation and dispersal of PbS, CdS or PbxCd1−xS resulted. Solution casting gave the “semiconductor-dispersed polymer electrolyte” (SPDE) membranes with 10–20% of electronic conductivity depending upon the preparatory conditions.