Molecular understanding of ion transport in a zwitterionic electrolyte

Zwitterions (ZIs) are unique molecules that carry both positive and negative charges, resulting in overall charge neutrality and high dielectric constants. These distinctive properties have enabled broad applications of zwitterionic functionality, including the emerging use of ZIs in lithium-ion battery electrolytes. As a contribution to this developing field, we use all-atom molecular dynamics simulations to investigate the ion transport mechanisms in amorphous mixtures of a zwitterionic liquid containing a range of LiTFSI salt concentrations. The local coordination environment around the Li+ ions plays a strong role in governing ionic conductivity, as well as the enhancement of Li+ transport numbers with increasing salt concentration. Addition of small amounts of water leads to increased conductivity and ion mobilities due to the water coordinating with the Li+ ions, which reduces direct interactions with larger charged species.