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Updated: May 21, 2026

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Synthesis of Ionic Liquid Based Electrolytes, Assembly of Li-ion Batteries, and Measurements of Performance at High Temperature
Published on: December 20, 2016
Lithium bis-(2-methyl-lactato)borate monohydrate
Summary
This study describes a novel lithium borate compound, [Li(C(8)H(12)BO(6))(H(2)O)](n), which forms a 2D polymer. The structure features 12-membered macrocycles cross-linked by lithium cations.
Area of Science:
- Inorganic Chemistry
- Materials Science
- Crystallography
Background:
- Metal-organic frameworks and coordination polymers are of significant interest due to their diverse applications.
- Lithium compounds play crucial roles in various chemical and technological fields.
Purpose of the Study:
- To synthesize and characterize a novel lithium borate compound with a polymeric structure.
- To elucidate the crystal structure and coordination environment of the lithium cations.
Main Methods:
- Single-crystal X-ray diffraction was employed to determine the molecular and crystal structure.
- Spectroscopic techniques were used for compound characterization.
Main Results:
- The title compound, poly[[aqua-lithium]-μ-3,3,8,8-tetra-methyl-1,4,6,9-tetra-oxa-5λ(4)-borataspiro-[4.4]nonane-2,7-dione]}, [Li(C(8)H(12)BO(6))(H(2)O)](n) (LiBMLB), was successfully synthesized.
- A 12-membered macrocyclic structure was observed, lying across a crystallographic inversion center.
- Lithium cations are pseudo-tetrahedrally coordinated by three methyl-lactate ligands and a water molecule.
- The macrocycles self-assemble into a 2D polymeric network through Li(+) cation cross-linking.
Conclusions:
- The study reveals a novel 2D coordination polymer based on lithium and a borate ligand.
- The structural analysis provides insights into the coordination chemistry of lithium in such systems.
- This work contributes to the understanding of self-assembly in metal-organic materials.
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