Solvation structure around ruthenium(II) tris(bipyridine) in lithium halide solutions

Abstract

The solvation of the ruthenium(II) tris(bipyridine) ion ([Ru(bpy)3]2+) is investigated with molecular dynamics simulations of lithium halide solutions in polar solvents. The anion distribution around the [Ru(bpy)3]2+ complex exhibits a strong solvent dependence. In aqueous solution, the iodide ion forms a solvent shared complex with [Ru(bpy)3]2+, but not in the other solvents. Between Cl– and [Ru(bpy)3]2+, the strong hydration of the chloride ion results in a solvent separated complex where more than one solvent molecule separates the anion from the metal center. Hence, tailored solvation properties in electrolytes is a route to influence ion-ion interactions and related electron transfer processes.