1-Allyl-3-methylimidazolium trifluoromethanesulfonate stands out in labs and specialty chemical stores thanks to a unique ionic-liquid structure that combines 1-allyl-3-methylimidazolium as the cation and trifluoromethanesulfonate as the anion. Chemists refer to it by its molecular formula, C7H11F3N2O3S, making its identity clear in records and material safety sheets. Its CAS number is 396350-13-7. In practice, this compound shows up as a pale to almost colorless liquid, and in cooler storage conditions, it can take on a crystalline, sometimes powdery or pearlescent appearance, but always with a notably high density compared to common organic solvents. When poured into a vessel, it feels distinctly heavy, with a density often between 1.3 and 1.4 grams per cubic centimeter at room temperature, depending on moisture content and purity. Such characteristics make the material useful in a range of innovative processes from organic synthesis to electrochemistry, where precise weight and volume help ensure reproducible conditions and measurements.
The substance stands out not only because of its ionic nature but also thanks to its specific physical and chemical properties. Its structure features an imidazolium ring, alkylated at one nitrogen with an allyl group and at the other with a methyl group, directly influencing how it interacts with other chemicals and solvents. The trifluoromethanesulfonate anion introduces chemical stability and lowers volatility, leading to an almost non-existent vapor pressure—much less than that of most volatile organic solvents. Many lab workers appreciate working with liquids or crystals like these, which release almost no odor and pose far less risk of inhalation exposure. In the solid state, 1-allyl-3-methylimidazolium trifluoromethanesulfonate can form flakes, small crystalline solids, or even pearls depending on how it’s cooled, handled, and dried. These variations impact how the compound dissolves and how fast it can be measured and transferred in scale-up chemistry or other applications.
A reliable batch of 1-allyl-3-methylimidazolium trifluoromethanesulfonate contains less than 0.5% water by weight, typically delivered in tightly sealed containers to prevent the absorption of ambient moisture—a reminder that many ionic liquids are hygroscopic and will try to pull water from the environment. The molecular weight calculates out to about 280.23 g/mol, information that matters every time chemists weigh out a sample. The material is available from raw materials suppliers in different batch sizes, usually as a liquid but sometimes as a fine powder or even larger granules depending on customer formulation needs. Volume is typically measured in liters for bulk supply or in smaller grams for precise laboratory work. As a non-volatile ionic liquid, it demands only standard care during transfer, but gloves, goggles, and a well-ventilated space remain best practice until more extensive toxicity data emerges.
High density—compared with water or traditional organic compounds—shows up when preparing solutions and measuring volumes. Chemists mixing this material with water, acetone, or acetonitrile often find rapid dissolution and excellent miscibility, though some organic solvents prove less compatible due to the ionic structure. In the field, this material goes into electrochemical cells, catalysis, or as a specialty additive in materials science, where stability and ionic conductivity are prized. The fact that 1-allyl-3-methylimidazolium trifluoromethanesulfonate can shift easily from solid to liquid form depending on temperature further supports custom processes—melting usually occurs close to room temperature. These properties give researchers versatility, but require attention to purity and the presence of water or other impurities, since some applications, like battery electrolytes, can be sensitive to changes in conductivity or crystal formation.
This ionic liquid ranks as a specialty chemical, coming with a unique safety and hazard profile. The structure, featuring both fluorine and sulfonate groups, means it resists many aggressive oxidizers and delivers strong thermal stability. While generally seen as less hazardous than volatile plant solvents or older ionic liquids with less environmentally friendly anions, it cannot be called perfectly safe. Direct contact with skin or eyes can cause irritation. Ingestion or chronic exposure may pose health risks—the presence of fluorinated anions raises concerns over bioaccumulation or slow breakdown in nature. Following standard chemical safety protocols—like using gloves, safety glasses, and working under a fume hood—remains wise until further toxicological data appears in public record. Disposal should follow local rules for specialty or hazardous materials, as waste containing fluorinated sulfonates can present challenges for wastewater treatment facilities.
Under global trade and shipping rules, the material classifies under HS Code 2933.39, which covers heterocyclic compounds with nitrogen hetero-atoms only. This classification affects import/export paperwork and can trigger special handling or disclosure depending on country and end-use. Professional suppliers include this code on paperwork and digital records. Anyone sourcing 1-allyl-3-methylimidazolium trifluoromethanesulfonate should check compatibility with downstream material specifications, looking for documented purity, moisture analysis, and suitability for the final application—whether battery electrolytes, specialized solvents, or lab-scale syntheses.
Interest in 1-allyl-3-methylimidazolium trifluoromethanesulfonate has grown as industries look for alternatives to traditional, volatile, and flammable organic solvents. The strong push toward greener, safer, and more efficient chemistry finds ionic liquids like this one in the spotlight. Yet, responsible adoption relies on balancing benefits and risks: choosing raw materials that minimize environmental impact, investing in up-to-date hazard communication, and pursuing thorough study on degradation, persistence, and toxicity. From personal experience, handling these ionic liquids brings an appreciation for the advances they enable, and a firm respect for evolving safety data. Chemists, engineers, and procurement managers all benefit from taking a closer look at supply chain details, chemical compatibilities, and regulatory changes impacting these materials. Careful review ensures that scientific progress doesn’t come at the expense of worker safety or environmental stewardship.
