Electrochemical systems for galvanic cells in organic aprotic solvents: V. Electrochemical behaviour of gamma-butyrolactone

Gamma-butyrolactone (GBL) was shown to decompose on the clean surface of Li, Na, K, and their amalgams. Polarization curves were obtained on Pt and “Kovar” electrodes at potentials from 4 to ?4 V vs. Li?Hg in 0.5 M LiClO₄ or vs. K?Hg in 0.5 M KPF₆. GBL was found to reduce electrochemically at potentials more positive than 1 V. Various passivation phenomena provoked by the decomposition of the solvent were observed, hindering cathodic deposition of the alkali metals from solutions of their salts in GBL. The presence of a high-molecular surfactant in the electrolyte suppresses the decomposition of GBL and suggests a path to the deposition of Li on the electrode.