
136 Electrochemically Enabled Sustainability
Typically, ILs are formed by the combination of a weakly interacting, large
cation, for example, of the imidazole type, and a exible anion, for example,
N,N-bis(triuoromethanesulphonyl) imide, TFSI [22,23]. ILs are not volatile,
not ammable, highly conductive, environmentally compatible and can
safely operate over a wide temperature range (see Figure 3.20).
This unique combination of favourable properties makes ILs very appeal-
ing materials as stable and safe electrolyte media in lithium batteries. These
electrolytes are prepared by combining lithium salts, usually with compat-
ible anions, for exampl ...