Abstract: An electrochemical system is provided by the present invention which includes a positive electrode; a negative electrode; an electrolyte containing a lithium salt dissolved in a non-aqueous solvent; and a nitrile component in the electrolyte. A preferred nitrile component is an aromatic nitrile. Also described is a process for inhibiting electrolyte decomposition wherein an initial cycle is performed on an inventive electrochemical system such that a solid-electrolyte interphase forms on the anode, inhibiting electrolyte decomposition.

Abstract: A composition is provided as a salt having the formula MBF3X where M is an alkali metal cation and X is the halide fluoride, bromide or iodide. A lithium salt has several characteristics making the composition well suited for inclusion within a lithium-ion battery. A process for forming an alkali metal trifluorohaloborate salt includes the preparation of a boron trifluoride etherate in an organic solvent. An alkali metal halide salt where the halide is chloride, bromide or iodide is suspended in the solution and reacted with boron trifluoride etherate to form an alkali metal trifluorohaloborate. The alkali metal trifluorohaloborate so produced is collected as a solid from the solution. The process is simple and yields alkali metal trifluorohaloborate of sufficient purity to be used directly in battery applications.

Abstract: The carboxyl borate represents a novel liquid that upon reaction with lithium halide produces a lithium ion electrochemical device electrolyte upon dissolution in an aprotic solvent mixture.

Abstract: An electrolyte compound has the formula where p is an integer from 1 to 3 inclusive; and Yp+ is a metal ion, onium species, or proton; j is an integer value between 0 and 4 inclusive; k is an integer between 1 and 3 inclusive; and the sum 2k and j equals 6; Z is independently in each occurrence CR1R2 or C(O); R1 and R2 are independently in each occurrence H, F or CH3. A process for preparing an oxyfluorophosphate is also provided.