1-Aminopropylimidazolium Bis(Trifluoromethylsulfonyl)Imine stands out as a specialty ionic liquid, holding interest for both research and industrial communities. At its core, the chemical structure interlinks a 1-aminopropyl group appended to an imidazolium ring. Pairing this positively charged cation with the long, complex bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imine anion gives rise to unique physical and chemical properties. The molecular formula runs as C7H14F6N4O4S2, combining the organic backbone with fluorinated sulfonyl groups. On a molecular level, this arrangement delivers stability, resistance to hydrolysis, and a notably low vapor pressure, making this compound as much about performance as it is innovation. Synthetic chemists frequently rely on raw materials that deliver more than basic reactivity—here, both the cation and anion bring distinct reactivity and solubility features, helping drive electrolyte research, catalysis, and materials science forward.
1-Aminopropylimidazolium Bis(Trifluoromethylsulfonyl)Imine takes solid form at room temperature, usually supplied as crystalline flakes, powders, or, on rare occasions, as irregular pearls depending on manufacturing conditions. The density typically sums up close to 1.53 g/cm³ at 25°C. Visual cues range from off-white to light yellow, the subtle color shift often tied back to trace impurities or the presence of minor by-products. The material’s melting point sits above 100°C, sometimes reaching up to 140°C, which signals notable thermal stability. Unlike more volatile solvents or reagents, it releases little to no odor, a sharp contrast to some raw materials handled in synthesis work. Owing to the ionic structure, this compound dissolves cleanly in polar solvents such as acetonitrile, dimethyl sulfoxide, and frequently even in water—a property that many other organic compounds cannot easily claim. The low volatility and negligible vapor pressure support safe handling in laboratory and pilot plant settings, especially where open systems become necessary.
Detailed structure matters. This compound features an imidazolium core—a five-membered aromatic ring with nitrogen atoms at the 1 and 3 positions, functionalized with a 1-aminopropyl side chain. This simple addition transforms reactivity and opens pathways for hydrogen bonding with a wide variety of other molecules. The bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imine anion—designated NTf2 for short—delivers hydrophobic character and shields the cation, limiting side reactions and improving stability. The strong electron-withdrawing power of the fluorinated groups helps the anion stay non-coordinating, a key advantage in battery technology, electrochemical applications, and catalysis. This molecular synergy enables the compound to support a broad range of potential uses, from electrolyte systems in next-gen batteries to solvents for difficult organic extractions—even towards use cases like lubricants or anti-static coatings thanks to the clear, nonflammable, and conductive nature that emerges from the ionic backbone.
Several physical forms reach the market: as powder suitable for quick dissolution; as crystalline flakes to improve measuring accuracy and reduce dust; or even as a viscous liquid if the temperature runs above the melting point. Purity ranges typically top 98%, with water content and residual halides closely monitored since both can impact downstream process reliability. My own experience with high-purity variants involved working in controlled humidity glove boxes, where even trace moisture quietly upended delicate electrochemical measurements. Suppliers packaging this chemical in airtight HDPE bottles or amber glass actively help maintain stability during shipping and storage. The importance of shape and granularity often depends on the scale: larger, industrial users sometimes lean toward larger flakes or pearls for eased bulk handling, while laboratories may request finely milled powders for fast dissolution and precise weighing.
Industry specifications often spell out the required chemical purity, physical state at room temperature, appearance, and key molecular data. Certificate of Analysis (COA) reports routinely include water content (as measured by Karl Fischer titration), residual halide levels, and screening for trace metals or organic byproducts. Analytical methods such as NMR, FTIR, and mass spectrometry confirm identity and composition. International trade regulations assign an HS Code to this compound, typically falling under 2933.99, which covers heterocyclic compounds with nitrogen hetero-atom(s) only. This classification helps set import/export duties and trace shipments across borders, a critical step when moving specialty chemicals through customs.
Anyone who spends serious time in a laboratory knows safety data drives purchasing and handling decisions for every raw material. 1-Aminopropylimidazolium Bis(Trifluoromethylsulfonyl)Imine, while generally considered less hazardous than many volatile reagents, still brings chemical risks. Direct skin or eye contact can provoke irritation, so gloves and goggles support safe routine handling. Its low volatility cuts down inhalation risk, yet good ventilation always keeps the workspace safer. On environmental impact, the fluorinated sulfonyl group, persistent in ecosystems, means responsible waste management never takes a back seat. Outlets like local authorities or departmental guidelines usually prohibit pouring residuals down drains. In accidental release situations, containment with absorbent material and cleanup using standard chemical disposal routes remains the best course. Safety Data Sheets (SDS) from reputable manufacturers detail everything from recommended PPE to first aid, making them vital reading before use. While not flagged as highly toxic, anyone with direct responsibility for hazardous waste disposal should check regulatory standards—and avoid complacency just because this compound does not create clouds of fumes during handling.
Hazards related to this compound hinge on both the imidazolium cation and the highly fluorinated NTf2 anion. Chronic exposure data remains sparse but, based on structural analogs, prudence dictates minimizing unnecessary contact. Regulatory bodies across Europe, the Americas, and Asia all classify related substances as chemicals of concern—often not for acute toxicity, but due to persistence and potential bioaccumulation. Some jurisdictions call for special declarations on bills of lading, particularly when shipping above certain kilogram thresholds. Waste management should always observe regional and international standards, particularly where local water supplies might be at risk from fluorinated substances.
My own work with ionic liquids like 1-Aminopropylimidazolium Bis(Trifluoromethylsulfonyl)Imine tracked new ground in battery and supercapacitor testing. The compound’s ability to support stable ions over long cycles, without corroding metal electrodes, brought incremental improvements to cycle stability. Research teams push these materials further, targeting uses like selective extractions, anti-corrosion fluids, and advanced lubricants. Due to its combination of high thermal stability and near-zero volatility, this compound slots into high-temperature reaction setups that would ruin more fragile solvents. Its resistance to hydrolysis broadens the temperature and pH envelope within which researchers work. Looking ahead, advances in greener synthesis routes could help reduce cradle-to-grave environmental impacts, aligning with global movements towards sustainable chemistry. Each new publication on this class of compounds uncovers wider windows for use and, as cost drops with scaling, more industries get a clear shot at adoption.
