Graphite intercalation chemistry with large fluoroanions

The syntheses and structures of graphite intercalations compounds (GIC's) containing perfluoroalkylimide, perfluoroalkylsulfonate, or perfluoroalkylborate ester anions are described. Synthetic methods include both chemical oxidation, typically performed using K2MnF6 in concentrated hydrofluoric or hydrofluoric/nitric acids, and electrochemical oxidation using a nitromethane-based electrolyte. These large fluoroanions generate larger and more complex intercalate galleries than are generally known for GIC's. The anion packing effects on intercalate orientation and conformation is described. (C) 2004 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.