Self-discharge phenomena
Thermally activated batteries lithium/iron disulfide

Self-discharge phenomena in thermal batteries have various origins:

• partial solubility of lithium or lithium-based compounds in the electrolyte (table 8);

• thermal decomposition of pyrite in contact with molten electrolyte ;

• partial solubility of sulfur species (Li₂S, FeS, FeS₂) (figure 11);

• formation of a parasitic phase between pyrite and electrolyte (phase J).

They are mainly linked to the possible and complex interactions between the electrolyte and the electrode materials. This means that particular attention must be paid to understanding the physico-chemical...