Cyclic voltammetric and Raman spectroscopic studies of the Li/LiAlCl4/SO2 and Li/LiGaCl4/SO2 rechargeable systems

Cyclic voltammetry was used to follow the electrochemical properties of LiAlCl4 and LiGaCl4 dissolved in SO2. The behaviour of the two electrolytes was very different indicating different reduction products at a glassy-carbon electrode. Attempts to identify the reduction products were made using in situ Raman spectroscopy of discharging Li/LiMCl4, SO2/C cells. Only the LiGaCl4 electrolyte yielded a Raman spectrum. The species present was not lithium dithionite as is produced in non-rechargeable Li/SO2 cells.