(78g) Studies on Complex Electrolytes for Magnesium Batteries

Magnesium-ion batteries are under investigation as a possible alternative platform to lithium-ion. Magnesium metal serves as a viable anode for post lithium-ion batteries due to its high volumetric charge capacity and widespread abundance. The electrolyte is identified as a limiting factor in magnesium batteries, as many analogous electrolytes to lithium-ion batteries can passivate the magnesium metal surface preventing rechargeability. Both electrolyte salt(s) and solvent(s) must be chosen to ensure chemical compatibility while facilitating desired electrochemical activity. Here we report our recent efforts to understand transport and electrochemical properties of complex liquid and polymer magnesium electrolytes. One area of interest is the effect of the anion electronic structure and solvent on the performance of magnesium bis(disilazide) based liquid electrolytes. This includes the electrochemical stability window and facileness of magnesium metal deposition and stripping. A secondary area of interest is facilitating transport in oligomeric and polymeric magnesium electrolytes with enhanced thermal stability.