1-Benzyl-3-Methylimidazolium Chloride is an ionic liquid with broad use in laboratory research, synthetic chemistry, and some manufacturing processes. This compound brings together a benzyl group and a methyl group, attached to an imidazolium ring, paired with a chloride anion. The chemical structure, defined as C11H13ClN2, holds key importance in defining its behavior, utility, and hazards. The benzyl and methyl substituents enrich the molecule’s solubility in both polar and non-polar environments, making it different from other simple imidazolium salts.
This salt appears mainly as a white to off-white crystalline solid at standard laboratory conditions. In practice, researchers describe its texture as ranging from dense flakes to fine powder. The density lies near 1.15 g/cm³ at ambient temperature, and its hygroscopic nature calls for airtight storage. On rare occasions, it might reach shelves as small pearls or dissolved in controlled concentrations for direct use. 1-Benzyl-3-Methylimidazolium Chloride dissolves well in water, dimethyl sulfoxide, and other polar solvents, opening the door to fluid handling in laboratories and pilot-scale chemical manufacturing. The molten state, reached above its melting point near 60-80°C, sometimes interests scientists exploring green solvents and catalysis.
The chloride anion acts as a counterion, contributing to chemical reactivity in organic transformations. Under some conditions, this compound can act as a phase transfer catalyst or ionic medium, supporting reactions that struggle in conventional organic solvents. The stable imidazolium core is backed by high thermal tolerance, reaching decomposition above 200°C. Studies show that even low levels of impurities slightly shift its melting behaviors, making high-purity sourcing essential for reproducible outcomes. Like most quaternary imidazolium salts, this compound presents some hazards. Direct contact with skin or eyes can irritate, and inhalation of its dust deserves caution. Material data sheets label it as harmful if ingested or inhaled in higher doses. Using basic lab protections—gloves, goggles, well-ventilated spaces—makes safe handling routine.
The imidazolium ring structure shows resonance stability, allowing delocalization of charge and high ionic conductivity. The benzyl and methyl groups alter the electron density, fostering interactions with aromatic guests and giving the molecule unique solvation skills. The exact molecular formula, C11H13ClN2, and a formula weight of about 208.69 g/mol clearly define its use in calculation-heavy fields like synthesis and catalysis. Interestingly, X-ray crystallography offers reference data for its three-dimensional structure—fused rings, planar cores, and bulky benzyl arms. These factors feed into discussions about solubility, miscibility, and the role of raw materials sourcing. Engineered purity and confirmation of the molecular skeleton prevent breakdowns in synthesis chains.
Producers offer detailed specifications: purity levels, melting range, water content, particle size, and even heavy metal traces are standard data points. Some packaging comes as bulk powder sealed in aluminum pouches, while others ship ready-to-dispense solutions or compact crystalline cakes, all engineered to avoid moisture uptake. Laboratory and industrial-grade samples carry a Harmonized System (HS) Code, supporting logistics and customs documentation. Globally, 1-Benzyl-3-Methylimidazolium Chloride typically holds HS Code 2921.49, reflecting its class as quaternary ammonium salts and derivatives. Listing batch numbers and production dates helps ensure traceability from synthesis to end-user. The raw materials—benzyl chloride, methylimidazole, and hydrochloric acid—also help track upstream sustainability and safety, not just technical properties.
This material’s ionic character draws attention in environmental circles. Some ionic liquids break down poorly in aquatic ecosystems, potentially impacting organisms if discharged without neutralization. Regulatory changes ask suppliers for biodegradability studies and life cycle assessments, echoing broader shifts toward chemical stewardship. The solid, powdery form helps limit uncontrolled release, so long as storage and disposal rules get clear attention. Routine waste management—collecting solids for hazardous chemical disposal, neutralizing dissolved waste—matters on both small and large scales. For responsible users, combining personal experience with guidelines in lab or plant settings strengthens safety beyond compliance. Every mishap avoided protects operators and the broader world alike.
Finding reliable sources for 1-Benzyl-3-Methylimidazolium Chloride demands close partnerships with manufacturers who stand behind their supply chains. Raw material quality, trace contaminant checks, and consistent batch analysis anchor quality assurance. Ongoing advances in synthetic routes and green chemistry offer new directions: minimizing hazardous byproducts, controlling emissions, and designing safer derivatives. Many research groups seek alternatives with less persistence in the environment, learning from the handling history of ionic liquids across a generation. By staying alert to chemical realities—structure, properties, density, risks—and building a culture of safety, professionals can harness the benefits of this compound while meeting today’s environmental and regulatory standards.
