EPR AND ELECTROCHEMICAL STUDIES OF THE SYSTEM Li⁺(C₂ H₅NH₂)_x.Na^-

Abstract
Very concentrated solutions of lithium and sodium can be obtained in ethylamine when these alkali metals are put in contact together in this solvent. The major species in presence are solvated lithium cations and sodium anions. The stoechiometry of the solution can be written as Li⁺(C₂H₅NH₂)_x.Na^-. The liquid corresponding to x = 4 is highly viscous and has a bronze metallic luster. Impedance measurements indicate that for x > 10, the behavior of the solution is similar to that of ordinary sodides in the same solvent. When x becomes close to 4, highly conducting systems are obtained. EPR spectroscopy measurements show only a single line having a g-value close to that of the free electron whose width increases as the temperature is decreased. A discontinuity is observed at about the freezing temperature of the solvent, but a paramagnetic signal is still present in the solid state. Band shape analysis indicates complex systems of several gaussian lines. "Dysonian" lines, characteristic of the onset of a metallic state, were never observed.