1,3-Dibutylimidazolium Bis((Trifluoromethyl)Sulfonyl)Imide is a type of ionic liquid, a chemical compound often discussed in laboratories and advanced manufacturing. Its molecular formula comes together as C19H32F6N3O4S2. The material often appears as a solid, sometimes flaky or in a pearl format, but can shift to a liquid at slightly elevated temperatures due to its lower melting point. Thanks to this unique structure, the compound finds roles within energy storage, electrolytes for batteries, catalysis in synthetic chemistry, solvent recovery, and electrochemical applications. The structure includes a bulky imidazolium cation attached to two butyl groups, balanced by a large, complex bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide anion. The density sits commonly at around 1.35 g/cm³, giving it that substantial, almost oily feel when compared to water or standard organic solvents. The solution form of this material brings benefits to researchers aiming to unlock new possibilities in green chemistry because it does not evaporate like traditional organic solvents.
This material stands out when compared to common laboratory solvents. Appearance can shift based on temperature and storage—the pure form often lands as crystalline flakes, solid beads, fine powders, or as a viscous liquid if the room runs warm. Color ranges from transparent to faintly yellow or off-white depending on purity level. Its molecular weight measures about 527.6 g/mol. Individuals working with this chemical note a lack of discernible odor, a blessing given the pungency common in other imidazolium-based ionic liquids. Its solubility profile favors organic liquids, such as acetone and acetonitrile, while stubbornly resisting easy mixing in water. Thermal stability pushes higher than many organic materials, holding up at temperatures above 300°C before significant decomposition occurs. Conductivity measurements reveal numbers in the milliSiemens per centimeter range, a detail prized by those needing robust electrolytes. What surprises newcomers is its remarkable non-volatility—a property that makes it far safer than conventional solvents for routine lab use.
Many industries look to 1,3-Dibutylimidazolium Bis((Trifluoromethyl)Sulfonyl)Imide because it solves old problems in specific processes. In the world of lithium-ion batteries, experts blend it as a non-volatile, non-flammable electrolyte, which provides extra safety. Its role as a solvent in organic synthesis can drive reactions that might otherwise fizzle in water or basic hydrocarbons. High selectivity in extraction or catalysis comes straight from the balance of hydrophobic and hydrophilic traits locked within its chemical structure. Engineers exploring lubricants and thermal fluids prize it for high thermal stability and superior flame resistance, which helps keep equipment running under tough conditions. The compound is often sourced from the reaction of 1,3-dibutylimidazolium halide salts with lithium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide under dry, controlled conditions, a process that requires careful handling of volatile raw ingredients to ensure high product purity. As a raw material, this chemical plays a quiet but key role behind the scenes, making better batteries, advanced coatings, and heat transfer products a part of daily life.
Every chemical carries risks, and this compound deserves respect. 1,3-Dibutylimidazolium Bis((Trifluoromethyl)Sulfonyl)Imide avoids some dangers common to volatile organic materials—such as easy inhalation or flammability—but workers must take notice of the hazards present in both raw form and in solution. Skin and eye contact can irritate, especially if handled daily without proper gloves or goggles. Inhalation of dust or fine powder poses worries for sensitive airways. Disposal must follow rules for hazardous chemicals because the bis(trifluoromethyl)sulfonyl)imide anion can linger in the environment and trouble aquatic life. Safety Data Sheets flag this material as harmful when swallowed or exposed chronically, flagging the need for proper ventilation and careful waste management. In my own experience dealing with advanced fluorinated chemicals, oversized respect for personal protective equipment keeps colleagues healthy and production safe. Always store the raw compound in tightly closed containers, far from moisture, as water can spoil its unique properties and invite unwanted reactions.
The molecular structure forms a cation-anion pair. The cation—1,3-dibutylimidazolium—resembles a five-membered ring containing two nitrogen atoms, with butyl chains stretching from positions one and three. The anion, bis((trifluoromethyl)sulfonyl)imide, brings two perfluorinated sulfonyl groups attached to a central nitrogen, making the whole structure unwieldy for simple interactions with polar or nonpolar solvents. This complex structure locks in many of the desirable properties: thermal resilience, density, electrical conductivity, and chemical inertness. Classification and trade follow HS Code 2942.00, falling under the category for organic compounds, mostly nitrogen-based. Customs officers and regulators focus on this code when moving the material across borders, making the field’s paperwork as important as the chemistry. Compliance with safety, labeling, and transportation standards prevents accidents and ensures it delivers on its promise in downstream industries. Storing the product in labeled containers avoids confusion with other ionic liquids, which often look similar but contain very different chemistries and hazards.
