Properties of bismuth selenide as a cathode material for lithium power sources

Influence of doping bismuth selenide with Cu atoms on its properties as a cathode material for lithium elements has been examined. The measurements of electrical characteristics and their anisotropy, structural properties of Bi₂Se₃< Cu> and discharge parameters of lithium elements are presented. We have established that adding 1 wt. % Cu to stoichiometric composition of bismuth selenide leads to decrease of free electron concentration and conductivity anisotropy whereas electron Hall mobility along the layers becomes increased. It is found the cathodes based on Cu-doped Bi₂Se₃ provide higher power parameters of the lithium elements. It is concluded that the dopant partially behaves as a self-intercalated impurity.