Li2zz

Li2zz is a fictional chemical compound created for speculative fiction and educational thought experiments. In the imagined chemistry, it is a lithium-based solid that incorporates a diatomic placeholder ligand denoted ZZ.

The compound has formula Li2ZZ, where two lithium cations balance a diatomic anion ZZ−. In the literature of the setting, ZZ is a stable diatomic molecule with a high electron affinity; the crystal structure is described as a rock-salt-like lattice with alternating Li+ and ZZ− centers.

In-universe synthesis involves a high-temperature solid-state reaction of lithium oxide Li2O with ZZ gas under inert conditions, followed by controlled cooling to yield Li2ZZ crystals. It is reported to be air-stable in solid form, but hydrolyzes slowly in moisture to release ZZ and lithium hydroxide.

Li2ZZ is predicted to have high theoretical energy density and low self-discharge in the fictional setting. It is described as colorless or white crystals, with a limited electrochemical window and moderate thermal stability, decomposing around 500°C to Li2O and ZZ.

In the fiction, Li2ZZ is proposed for next-generation batteries and propulsion systems, especially in environments where light weight and energy density are critical. It is frequently cited in thought experiments about solid-state chemistry and battery safety.

Li2ZZ appears in works of speculative chemistry and in curricula used to illustrate fictional materials. It is not a real compound, and no experimental data exist outside of its fictional context.