1-Allyl-3-Ethylimidazolium Chloride, commonly abbreviated as [AEIm]Cl, stands out as a specialized ionic liquid with a growing presence in research and chemical processes. This material’s full chemical formula is C8H13ClN2, formed by the combination of an allyl and an ethyl group attached to an imidazolium ring, balanced by a chloride anion. The structure allows distinct physicochemical properties, which sets it apart from traditional organic solvents. Researchers in chemistry and materials science value this compound both for its stability and its ability to dissolve a range of organic and inorganic species. Today, laboratories and industrial facilities source it as a raw material for catalyst anchoring, cellulose processing, and various organic syntheses. Over the past decade, I noticed a sharp rise in the number of laboratory protocols referencing this ionic liquid, pointing to its expanding importance.
The most prominent trait of 1-Allyl-3-Ethylimidazolium Chloride is its physical versatility. Depending on conditions and purity, suppliers offer it as a crystalline powder, solid flakes, and sometimes as viscous pearls or colorless to pale yellow liquid. The density rests near 1.1 g/cm³ — higher than water, but lower than many metal-laden salts. This moderate density assists with practical transfers, weighing, and solution-making in laboratory or pilot plant settings. The melting point commonly ranges from 40°C to 65°C, so at room temperature, it often exists as a soft solid or melted liquid, which I have found simplifies dosing and mixing. Some sources provide it in liter bottles for solution-phase use, while others deliver in small jars of crystal or powder stock. Given the broad solubility, 1-Allyl-3-Ethylimidazolium Chloride mixes well with polar protic and aprotic solvents, supporting its role as a solvent modulator.
The molecular structure influences much of the compound's behavior. The imidazolium core coordinates with metals, supports ionic conductivity, and helps stabilize transition states in catalytic systems. The allyl substituent lends a degree of reactivity not seen with more typical alkyl imidazolium salts. That structural detail has nudged the compound into the spotlight for the synthesis of task-specific ionic liquids. Researchers tap into the allyl group for post-synthetic modification, polymerization, or binding to solid supports, expanding its use beyond simple solvent or electrolyte work. The chloride counterion provides accessibility and low synthetic cost compared to other salts, though it’s important for users to watch for hydrolysis or moisture sensitivity, especially during long storage periods.
Ionic liquids like 1-Allyl-3-Ethylimidazolium Chloride bridge laboratory curiosity and real-world application. In materials chemistry, [AEIm]Cl helps dissolve cellulose, bringing new angles to biomass processing and “green” chemical extraction. The same features facilitate enzyme work, protein dissolution, and electrochemical studies involving complex redox systems. I’ve encountered it in protocols designing new batteries or supercapacitors, due to its ion conduction and chemical stability. Laboratories leverage this compound to activate or immobilize catalysts, expanding recyclable and environmentally-friendly methods in synthetic chemistry. Production of these materials takes into account not only the final application but also the sustainability and safety of intermediate raw materials. Customers often ask about low levels of halide impurities, moisture content, and batch reproducibility — features that require careful production and QC steps all through the supply chain.
1-Allyl-3-Ethylimidazolium Chloride typically falls under HS Code 2933.99 for “heterocyclic compounds with nitrogen hetero-atom(s) only.” Correct code assignment speeds up customs clearance and supports regulatory traceability. Purity ranges from 98% up to 99.9%, with impurity profiles available on demand. For stocking, this compound resists oxidation under sealed, dry, and cool storage. Failure to block out moisture might lead to slow hydrolysis, impacting both performance and shelf-life. Suppliers shipping in solid, powder, or liquid forms always label against ambient humidity exposure. My own experience with similar imidazolium-based materials has taught me to avoid glass stoppers, as ionic liquids can sometimes lock glassware shut or damage seals unless kept in chemically-resistant containers.
Despite the appeal as a designer solvent and synthetic intermediate, safety remains a key concern with 1-Allyl-3-Ethylimidazolium Chloride. Like many ionic liquids, it lacks a long record of human toxicity, but direct skin or eye contact causes irritation. Dust or aerosol can irritate respiratory systems. Repeated contact without gloves tends to produce mild dermatitis. Users avoid open flames and strong oxidizers nearby, as the compound decomposes above 200°C, sometimes producing corrosive or noxious gases. Material safety data sheets (MSDS) recommend splash-proof goggles, lab coats, and chemical-resistant gloves. Disposal routes treat [AEIm]Cl as chemical waste, never as household trash—proper collection ensures no release to the environment. The structure does not biodegrade quickly, so controlled incineration with emission scrubbing is standard. I’ve noticed increased scrutiny on these disposal protocols at institutions aiming to restrict halogenated organics in routine lab waste. Looking forward, environmental and occupational health organizations will watch for updated hazard data and more transparent handling protocols.
Anyone sourcing 1-Allyl-3-Ethylimidazolium Chloride should rely on detailed certifications of analysis, confirming identity by NMR, IR, and elemental composition. High-purity batches matter most in synthetic chemistry and energy research, where low traces of competing ions or water can skew results. Keeping samples sealed and stored in climate-controlled rooms avoids loss of performance. For industrial users, routine staff training on handling, spillage control, and emergency cleanup minimizes workplace risk. Chemists who use this compound in cellulose or catalyst research often provide feedback to suppliers, which helps evolve safety labeling and packaging. Pharmaceutically, regulatory frameworks remain on the cautious side since new applications cannot proceed without careful review of toxicological studies. My own experience working with academic-industry collaborations shows that this mix of rigorous quality control, process safety, and compliance with import/export codes is not just a best practice but central to everyday safe and effective chemical work.
