Open AccessInsights into Ionic Liquids: From Z-Bonds to Quasi-Liquids
Author(s) -
Yanlei Wang,
Hongyan He,
Chenlu Wang,
Yumiao Lu,
Kun Dong,
Feng Huo,
Suojiang Zhang
Publication year - 2022
Publication title -
jacs au
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
ISSN - 2691-3704
DOI - 10.1021/jacsau.1c00538
Subject(s) - ionic liquid , environmentally friendly , nanotechnology , hydrogen bond , chemical physics , materials science , field (mathematics) , biochemical engineering , computer science , engineering physics , chemistry , physics , molecule , organic chemistry , engineering , catalysis , ecology , mathematics , pure mathematics , biology
Ionic liquids (ILs) hold great promise in the fields of green chemistry, environmental science, and sustainable technology due to their unique properties, such as a tailorable structure, the various types available, and their environmentally friendly features. On the basis of multiscale simulations and experimental characterizations, two unique features of ILs are as follows: (1) strong coupling interactions between the electrostatic forces and hydrogen bonds, namely in the Z-bond, and (2) the unique semiordered structure and properties of ultrathin films, specifically regarding the quasi-liquid. In accordance with the aforementioned theoretical findings, many cutting-edge applications have been proposed: for example, CO 2 capture and conversion, biomass conversion and utilization, and energy storage materials. Although substantial progress has been made recently in the field of ILs, considerable challenges remain in understanding the nature of and devising applications for ILs, especially in terms of e.g. in situ /real-time observation and highly precise multiscale simulations of the Z-bond and quasi-liquid. In this Perspective, we review recent developments and challenges for the IL research community and provide insights into the nature and function of ILs, which will facilitate future applications.