"Boron oxalate" does not refer to a single, simple chemical compound with one universal formula. Instead, it is a general term often used to describe a family of inorganic complexes known as borate oxalates. These complexes are characterized by a central boron atom coordinated with one or more oxalate (C₂O₄²⁻) ligands, often alongside other substituents.
Understanding Borate Oxalate Complexes
Borate oxalate complexes are typically anionic, meaning they carry a negative charge. Due to this charge, they require a counter-ion—usually a large organic cation like tetraphenylphosphonium ([(C₆H₅)₄P]⁺)—to form stable, neutral salts. The boron atom in these complexes can be bonded to various additional ligands, such as:
- Fluoride (F⁻)
- Trifluoromethyl (CF₃⁻)
- Pentafluoroethyl (CF₃CF₂⁻)
- Methoxy (OCH₃⁻)
These modifications to the boron coordination sphere lead to a diverse range of compounds, each with its own unique chemical formula and properties. Borate oxalates are of significant interest in material science, particularly as components in electrolytes for lithium-ion batteries, where their robust anionic nature can enhance electrolyte stability and performance.
Examples of Borate Oxalate Compounds
Below are specific examples of borate oxalate compounds, illustrating the complex nature of their chemical formulas and, where available, their crystallographic unit cell parameters. These compounds highlight how boron is integrated with oxalate and other ligands to form stable complexes.
| Compound Formula | Unit Cell Parameters |
|---|---|
| [(C₆H₅)₄P][CF₃B(OCH₃)(C₂O₄)] | a = 11.0744 Å, b = 11.5314 Å, c = 12.2196 Å, α = 73.427°, β = 69.395°, γ = 61.786°, Z = 2 |
| [(C₆H₅)₄P][CF₃CF₂B(OCH₃)(C₂O₄)] | No specific unit cell parameters available |
| [(C₆H₅)₄P][CF₃BF(C₂O₄)] | No specific unit cell parameters available |
| [(C₆H₅)₄P][CF₃CF₂BF(C₂O₄)] | a = 16.821 Å, b = 7.1612 Å, c = 21.519 Å, β = 101.981°, Z = 4 |
These examples demonstrate that "boron oxalate" is not a singular substance but rather a descriptor for a class of complex borate species incorporating oxalate ligands. Each specific compound within this class has its own distinct and often elaborate chemical formula.
