1-Butyl-2,3-Dimethylimidazolium Bromide comes from a distinctive family of ionic liquids that continues to interest researchers and engineers alike. Used as a raw material and chemical intermediate, this compound plays a valuable role in materials science, electrochemistry, catalysis, and advanced separation techniques. Its molecular formula, C9H17BrN2, and a molecular weight of 245.15 g/mol put it among other halide salts, yet its physical characteristics distinguish it from typical organics or inorganics. With a butyl group at the 1-position and two methyl groups at the 2- and 3- positions on the imidazolium ring, the structure creates a strong balance between hydrophobic and hydrophilic features. The ionic pairing with bromide opens doors to unique solubility and reactivity profiles not easily matched in conventional solvent alternatives or phase transfer agents.
In the laboratory or industrial setting, 1-Butyl-2,3-Dimethylimidazolium Bromide often appears as an off-white to pale yellow powder, occasionally manifesting as flakes, pearls, or a crystalline solid depending on synthesis conditions or humidity. Its density hovers around 1.2–1.3 g/cm³ at room temperature, a figure noticeable to anyone familiar with imidazolium salts, which tend to pack tightly due to their ionic lattice. With a melting point in the range of 150–160°C, the material stays solid at ambient conditions, yet melts smoothly to yield a viscous liquid. It brings the flexibility to function in a variety of solvent systems and blends, showing good solubility in polar solvents like water and alcohol but resisting dissolution in most non-polar organics. This amphiphilic nature regularly finds use in biphasic catalysis or as a designer medium for material processing. In some labs, the high purity flakes are preferred, while in analytical work, the fine powder or high-clarity crystals enable precise dosage and dissolution.
The backbone of 1-Butyl-2,3-Dimethylimidazolium Bromide starts with the imidazolium core—a five-membered ring with two nitrogen atoms, stabilized by an electron-rich aromatic system. By attaching a butyl chain to the 1-position and methyl groups at the 2 and 3 positions, the molecule gains bulk and a notable degree of hydrophobicity, which alters its packing and melting behavior. A bromide anion sits adjacent, lending ionic character to the substance and driving many of its properties, from conductivity to solubility and reactivity. Laboratories and factories alike depend on the specific chemical signature this compound offers, as the tuning of alkyl chain and anion opens pathways to controlled viscosity, electrical properties, and compatibility in synthesis or electrochemical devices.
Manufacturers supply this salt under several grades, commonly as a solid, powder, dense flakes, or high-purity crystal. Specification sheets typically cite a minimum purity threshold of 98%, with water content kept below 0.5% through drying or controlled environment packaging. End users look for tight particle size distribution and consistent melting behavior given the sensitivity in many of its target applications. In liquid blends or as a saturated solution, measured by volume in liters, the ionic strength and solvation characteristics change, opening avenues in custom electrolyte or separation science. Pearl forms find favor in some process workflows for ease of handling and reduced dust. Whether as a bulk material for pilot plants or in analytically precise bottles for research, the physical form influences not just convenience but sometimes the outcome of chemical transformations or measurements.
On the customs and regulatory side, 1-Butyl-2,3-Dimethylimidazolium Bromide is classified under the Harmonized System (HS) Code 2933.99, falling within the category of heterocyclic compounds with nitrogen heteroatoms. This code often accompanies documentation for international transport or compliance checks. Safety data sheets provide guidance on transport, labeling, and permissible exposure measures, calling for clarity around hazardous, harmful, or irritant characteristics anywhere the substance crosses borders.
Like many organo-bromide salts and ionic liquids, 1-Butyl-2,3-Dimethylimidazolium Bromide prompts the need for attention in chemical safety. As a solid or powder, it poses minor inhalation risks if airborne, and prolonged skin contact may cause mild irritation. It rarely qualifies as acutely toxic, but high concentrations or extended exposure require gloves and eye protection. Good practice dictates storage in tightly sealed containers, dry and shielded from significant temperature swings, with clear labeling to avoid accidental mixing or misuse. Waste handling follows rules for halogenated organic compounds, with avoidance of discharge into waterways given unknown impacts on aquatic systems. On a production floor, containment, ventilation, and proper personal protective equipment take priority to avoid accidental exposure. Safety data sheets point to its status as a chemical material that merits careful handling but does not carry the same degree of risk as volatile solvents or reactive oxidizers.
The real value of 1-Butyl-2,3-Dimethylimidazolium Bromide emerges in its uses. Its ionic nature makes it a handy choice for electrochemical cells, offering low volatility and high thermal stability. In catalytic applications, the balance between hydrophobic and ionic regions in the molecule allows for innovative biphasic reactions, providing new options for selective transformations. Material scientists have seen results improving solubility of cellulose and other tough biopolymers, an area where sustainability and cost considerations drive advances. Chemical engineers working to improve separations, extractions, and process intensification see these ionic liquids as ways to boost efficiency while reducing reliance on hazardous volatile organics. In the sphere of energy storage, the material has promise as a component in new battery and capacitor technologies, offering increased safety over traditional electrolytes. Yet challenges exist: cost of synthesis, stability of the bromide under harsh conditions, and the long-term environmental fate call for continued innovation. To advance further, industry and academia can collaborate on greener synthesis routes, reliable recycling methods, and comprehensive toxicology studies so that broader implementation avoids pitfalls seen with older chemical solutions.
