Halogenido alkalates: Synthesis and characterization of coordination compounds of the alkali metals from ionic liquids

• Applicant: Dr. Günther Thiele
• Subject Area: Inorganic Molecular Chemistry - Synthesis and Characterisation
• Term: since 2022
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 514489632

This project will obtain a complex understanding of the compound class of halido alkalates through systematic synthetic work in combination with theoretical estimates. Such compounds represent a link between classic salts and coordination compounds, since the elements involved cannot form classic chemical bonds, yet display complex anionic substructures. These compounds are synthesized at medium temperatures in liquid salts, so-called ionic liquids, which are discussed as electrolytes in battery technology. Whilst our preliminary work provided the first structural evidence for this class of compounds, the existence of polyanionic halido alkalates in electrolytes has so far only been postulated. Within the scope of the presented project, a complex understanding of the possible variety of structures, energetic considerations, and a fundamental understanding of the influencing synthetic parameters are pursued. By systematically varying the synthesis parameters, the ions involved, as well as the water content, a large number of novel structural motifs are expected, which will serve as a basis for energetic considerations and subsequent models for the prediction of new compounds. A special focus will further be on the characterization of dissolved species, which on the one hand will contribute to the understanding of the formation processes and on the other hand contribute to the identification of halido alkalates in electrolyte systems.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants