Thermal decomposition kinetics of AsF5-doped polyacetylene in vacuum

Abstract

Electrical conductivity measurements, mass spectra of desorbing species, and ESCA surface analysis are reported for AsF₅‐doped polyacetylene heated between 50 and 130 °C in vacuum. All measurements indicate first‐order decomposition kinetics with activation energies between 13 and 20 kcal mole⁻¹. Decomposition leads to the desorption of AsF₃ and F₂. Metallic arsenic remains in the polyacetylene as a decomposition by‐product.