Voltammetry in Room Temperature Ionic Liquids: Comparisons and Contrasts with Conventional Electrochemical Solvents

The recent literature is surveyed to explore the nature of voltammetry in room temperature ionic liquids. The extent of similarities with conventional electrochemical solvents is reported and some surprising differences are noted. A great drop! Interest in room temperature ionic liquids has significantly increased over the past decade. Such an interest arises from the potentially high intrinsic conductivity, high thermal stability, low volatility, the ability to remain liquid at a wide range above and below room temperature, high polarity, high viscosity, and wide electrochemical windows.