Synlett 2017; 28(06): 705-706
DOI: 10.1055/s-0036-1588391
letter
© Georg Thieme Verlag Stuttgart · New York

Improved Synthesis of Pinacol Dimethyl Ether – A Superior Solvent for Lithium–Oxygen Batteries

Elisabeth Jaskulska
Institut für Chemie, Carl von Ossietzky Universität Oldenburg, 26111 Oldenburg, Germany   Email: jens.christoffers@uni-oldenburg.de
,
Gunther Wittstock
Institut für Chemie, Carl von Ossietzky Universität Oldenburg, 26111 Oldenburg, Germany   Email: jens.christoffers@uni-oldenburg.de
,
Jens Christoffers*
Institut für Chemie, Carl von Ossietzky Universität Oldenburg, 26111 Oldenburg, Germany   Email: jens.christoffers@uni-oldenburg.de
› Author Affiliations
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Publication History

Received: 31 October 2016

Accepted after revision: 13 December 2016

Publication Date:
10 January 2017 (online)


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Abstract

Pinacol dimethyl ether (2,3-dimethoxy-2,3-dimethylbutane) was reported to be a superior solvent for lithium-oxygen batteries because of lacking α-H-atoms, thus, shutting down the major decomposition pathway in such devices. An improved Williamson ether synthesis of this solvent is reported starting from pinacol and methyl iodide. Crucial for the success of this double alkylation reaction was the choice of methyl lithium as the base.

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