M. C. Ojeda

Carbon black effect on the microstructure of incompatible polymer blends

Abstract This work reports on a study of the effects exerted by carbon black (CB) on the microstructure of the incompatible polymer blend polyvinylidene fluoride/polyamide (PVDF/PA) by means of calorimetric and dynamic mechanical determinations of the glass transition temperatures, as well as the isothermal crystallization kinetics. The results demonstrate partial polymer compatibilization to take place in the PVDF-rich phase, as a consequence of an improvement in component adhesion at the CB–PVDF interface. In addition, CB is shown to modify the isothermal crystallization kinetic parameters.

Electrical and electrochemical characterization of petrol cokes for lithium-ion cells

Several cokes and graphites have been electrically and electrochemically characterized. The process of electrochemical lithium ion insertion into these materials has been analyzed for the purpose of assessing their performance as electrodes in advanced batteries and as potential candidates to substitute for lithium metal. The results obtained prove the process of electrochemical lithium ion insertion into cokes and graphites to be strongly influenced both by the ordered structure of the starting material and by the nature of the anion of the lithium salt, which is used as electrolyte.