Mg2+ ion-catalyzed polymerization of 1,3-dioxolane in battery electrolytes†
Abstract
Electrolyte salts with Mg2+ and Al3+ Lewis acidic cations demonstrate polymerization of 1,3-dioxolane. The speed and extent of the reaction depends on coordination of the anion with the Mg2+ cation catalyst. Weakly coordinating anions such as TFSI− aid faster polymerization while strongly coordinating anions such as ClO4− hinder the polymerization.