Chemical synthesis of graphite bis(perfluoropinacolato)borate and graphite bis(hexafluorohydroxyisobutyrato)borate intercalation compounds

Graphite chelate borate intercalation compounds, CxB[OC(CF3)2C(CF3)2O]2 · δF and CxB[OC(CF3)2C(O)O]2 · δF, are prepared for the first time by chemical oxidation of flaky graphite with fluorine gas in the presence of a solution of the intercalate anion in anhydrous hydrofluoric acid. Powder XRD data indicate that products up to stage 1 with gallery heights, di = 1.43-1.45 nm are formed. The compositions of CxB[OC(CF3)2C(CF3)2O]2 · δF and CxB[OC(CF3)2C(O)O]2 · δF are determined using B and F elemental analyses. Thermogravimetric analyses indicate the graphene sheets begin to decompose before intercalate thermolysis is complete.