Synthesis of Strontium-Graphite Intercalation Compounds

Abstract

Conditions for obtaining the stage 1 Sr-GIC from natural graphite flake, Grafoil andartificial graphite (petroleum coke HTT 2600°C) by a convenient two-bulb technique weredetermined.The stage 1 Sr-GIC was isolated for natural graphite flake and the identityperiod and chemical composition were determined to be 4.95 Å and SrC6, respectively inaccordance with those reported by Guerard et al.Temperature favorable to obtain the stage 1 Sr-GIC was found to be in the region between 460°C and 490°C, although reaction period also should be controlled because the stage 1 Sr-GIC was not the final product but an intermediate one toward the carbide.Grafoil and artificial graphite also gave the stage 1 Sr-GIC, but the isolation was not performed.The stage 1 Sr-GIC was found to be very stable in the air.Even after 6 days of exposure to the air at 120°C, it was not fully decomposed but a large part remained in the residue.