1-Benzyl-3-Methylimidazolium Tosylate, often called [Bzmim][Tos], stands out among ionic liquids and organic salts. This compound appears most often as white to off-white crystalline solid, but it can also take on a powder or flake texture depending on storage and particle size. Structurally, it features an imidazolium core substituted with a benzyl group and a methyl group, paired with a tosylate anion, more formally known as para-toluenesulfonate. The molecular formula is C17H20N2O3S, and it brings together features from each functional group for chemistry and materials engineering applications.
In hands-on lab work, the material offers robust solubility in water and many polar organic solvents, opening up its role in catalysis, phase transfer, and novel electrolyte systems. Density sits typically around 1.15-1.20 g/cm3 in solid form, but density can shift a bit with temperature and moisture uptake. Bzmim Tosylate’s melting point ranges between 85–110 °C, which gives it thermal stability across most synthetic procedures and storage environments. Flakes, fine powder, compact pearls, or crystalline lumps—each form reflects small changes in moisture, grinding, or aging, but none affect the underlying chemical identity.
Industry researchers and chemical companies often reach for 1-Benzyl-3-Methylimidazolium Tosylate when they want a versatile ionic liquid or need to design a safer, non-volatile alternative to halide-based salts. It serves as a specialty solvent in organic synthesis, deep eutectic mixtures, and electrochemical devices. In my projects, even the subtle tweaks—like purity above 98%, low chloride content, certified traceability—can make a difference in reaction yields or device efficiency. Manufacturers source raw materials such as methylimidazole, benzyl chloride, and tosyl chloride, then use straightforward synthesis steps to couple and purify the salt. End users value the compound for its thermal stability and good compatibility with organic molecules, but I have also seen it cause headaches if left open and exposed to atmospheric moisture, which can clump the powder or affect its performance.
Imported and traded under the HS Code 2934999099, 1-Benzyl-3-Methylimidazolium Tosylate falls in the “other heterocyclic compounds” category. Customs classification matters for record-keeping, pricing, duties, and safe transport declarations. Shipping regulations demand proper labeling as a chemical product, packaged securely to avoid exposure to humidity and contamination. Even when not flagged as a hazardous substance by every regulation, chemical handlers ought to treat it with care, using gloves and goggles to avoid skin or eye contact.
In my experience, Bzmim Tosylate rarely triggers toxic responses in small-scale lab handling, though accidental ingestion, inhalation of dust, or contact with mucous membranes needs prompt medical attention. The tosylate counterion lacks the corrosiveness or volatility of some alternatives, making the salt generally less harmful in routine handling compared to imidazolium chlorides or bromides. Chemical safety data sheets report few acute risks, but chronic research remains ongoing, so prudent use and careful waste management always matter. If working at industrial scale, install high-efficiency particulate filters, supply drift-proof packaging, and train workers in spill cleanup techniques. Safe chemical stewardship goes beyond rules—it builds trust and reliability with both workers and customers.
Bzmim Tosylate supports green chemistry efforts, especially for solvent replacement, catalyst immobilization, and new polymer electrolytes. In my own work with synthesis, its unique balance of polarity and non-volatility provides cleaner separations and lowers fire risk, compared to traditional organic solvents. Environmental challenges won’t disappear overnight, but ionic liquids like this one give the industry another option to cut down on hazardous emissions and reduce loss from evaporation. Solutions come from ongoing testing—optimizing washing steps, improving drying protocols, and further refining the purity of raw components. Investing in better analytical controls and real-time feedback inside production facilities helps cut waste, avoid batch rejection, and maintain product value.
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Chemical Name | 1-Benzyl-3-Methylimidazolium Tosylate |
| Molecular Formula | C17H20N2O3S |
| Appearance | White to off-white crystal, powder, flakes, or pearls |
| Molecular Weight | 332.42 |
| Density | 1.15–1.20 g/cm3 |
| Melting Point | 85–110 °C |
| Solubility | Very soluble in water, ethanol, many polar solvents |
| HS Code | 2934999099 |
| Purity | >98% |
The chemistry community continues to seek safe, high-performing, and sustainable materials. 1-Benzyl-3-Methylimidazolium Tosylate brings a toolkit for creative research, safe industrial handling, and product development, backed by rigorous molecular properties and regulatory compliance. This salt carves a path between traditional solvents and advanced electrolytes, but demands careful consideration for safety, quality, and environmental impact at every stage. By treating raw materials, supply systems, and chemical handling protocols with the seriousness these substances deserve, practitioners protect not only their processes, but also their teams and the communities they serve.
