Reactions of chlorine and related molecules with graphite intercalation compounds

K-graphite intercalation compounds (GICs), metal chloride-GICs and reduced products of CuCl2-GICs were allowed to react with chlorine. Decomposition of K-GICs took place through the reaction with chlorine. The extent of the decomposition was found to be dependent not on the gas pressure of the chlorine but on the stage number of the starting GIC. Metal chloride-GICs were unreactive with chlorine, whereas chlorine could react with copper particles generated in the interlayer of graphite through the reduction of CuCl2-GICs. The reaction products were CuCl and CuCl2; the former exists as crystals in the interlayer, and the latter can form CuCl2-GICs. Also reported on are reactions of GICs with chlorobenzene, benzoyl bromide and iodine monochloride.