Low-viscosity and low-melting point asymmetric trialkylsulfonium based ionic liquids as potential electrolytes

Nine new ionic liquids based on small asymmetric trialkylsulfonium cations with TFSI− anion were prepared and characterized. Physical and electrochemical properties of these ionic liquids, including melting point, thermal stability, viscosity, conductivity and electrochemical window were determined. Reducing symmetry of cations reduces the melting points of these ILs. Some of these hydrophobic ionic liquids showed low-viscosity and low-melting point characteristics. The viscosities of S223TFSI, S221TFSI and S123TFSI were 33, 36 and 39 mPa s at 25 °C, respectively. Electrochemical and thermal stabilities of these ILs permitted them to become promising electrolytes used in electrochemical devices.