1-Butyl-2,3-Dimethylimidazolium Iodide stands out in the world of chemical materials, especially in research labs and various industrial processes focusing on advanced synthesis and electrochemistry. Its molecular formula, C9H17IN2, reflects an organic salt where ions offer both reactivity and stability. Looking at the structure, one sees the imidazolium core: a five-membered ring with key methyl groups at the 2 and 3 positions, plus a butyl side chain, all surrounding a central iodide anion. This particular arrangement isn’t just for show. The way the structure balances bulk and polarity makes this salt easy to manipulate in both solid and liquid forms, and its relatively straightforward composition opens doors for wide-ranging applications in science and industry. The HS Code used for international shipping and customs often falls within the category for organic chemicals or ionic liquids, simplifying logistics for regulated environments.
Anyone who has worked with 1-Butyl-2,3-Dimethylimidazolium Iodide knows it doesn’t strictly conform to a single state. Under ordinary conditions, it can shift between forms—fine powder, flakes, or even shining pearls depending on the preparation and storage. At room temperature, you may find it as a solid, sometimes crystalline, and not far off from granular sugar in texture. Melting brings out a thick, sometimes syrupy liquid that holds its form well when measured by the liter for larger scale reactions or preparations. Its color usually ranges from white to off-white, occasionally picking up slight yellow tones if impurities sneak in, but pure samples look almost pristine.
Density often lands around 1.3 to 1.5 g/cm3, giving it a heftier feel in hand compared to organic solvents. In my years of handling specialty chemicals, proper weighing and storage in air-tight containers matter, since it responds to humidity and can absorb moisture from the environment—change in weight and texture happens quickly unless managed properly. In solution, usually in polar solvents, the compound dissolves evenly, resulting in a clear to slightly opaque liquid, which proves especially useful in electrochemical research and synthesis of novel materials. The detailed specifications for laboratory and industrial uses depend on purity, often listed in excess of 98% for demanding applications.
Demand for this imidazolium salt stems from its role as a raw material in the creation of ionic liquids, catalysts, and as a supporting electrolyte in battery and solar cell research. The imidazolium cation, coupled with the iodide anion, creates a favorable ionic environment for electrolytic assemblies, making this compound particularly attractive for scientists working on next-generation conductive materials. In my experience working with photovoltaic prototypes, 1-Butyl-2,3-Dimethylimidazolium Iodide produced the reliable ionic strength needed to help stabilize charge transfer processes, playing its part in pushing forward the reliability of new solar technologies. Its use is not purely academic; specialty manufacturers often rely on its chemical properties for tailored syntheses such as organic phase-transfer catalysts or intermediates in pharmaceutical development.
Safety belongs at the front of any lab routine dealing with this compound. Like many iodide salts, it can present hazards: skin and eye irritation on contact, respiratory discomfort if dust or fumes become airborne during weighing or transfer. Where I’ve worked, protective gloves and goggles enter the standard protocol for handling this material, and because of iodine’s inherent reactivity, storage goes in cool, dry, well-ventilated spaces away from oxidizers. Disposal follows hazardous waste guidelines for organic halides, and spills get managed with inert absorbents before proper cleanup and ventilation. Understanding these risks and maintaining structured procedures stop minor mishaps from turning into expensive downtime.
One challenge among many is the cost and environmental footprint associated with iodide-based ionic liquids, both in terms of sourcing raw materials and dealing with eventual disposal. With the global chemical industry under constant scrutiny for sustainable practices, companies and researchers must weigh benefits of performance against the realities of waste generation. To address this, some groups pursue closed-loop processes where iodide is recovered from spent solutions and recycled. During collaborations, I’ve seen simple filtration and precipitation steps retrieve most of the iodide content, sharply cutting down hazardous output and reducing the need for fresh supplies. For those looking to scale up, working directly with suppliers to secure high-purity material in bulk—accompanied by reliable documentation and safety sheets—saves time and avoids compliance headaches.
On the research side, tuning the composition of these materials, perhaps substituting lighter halides like chloride or bromide when applications allow, continues to attract interest. By altering the molecular structure subtly, some developers reach similar ionic conductivities without the same health or supply chain worries related to iodine. That said, for certain sensitive jobs, the unique attributes of 1-Butyl-2,3-Dimethylimidazolium Iodide remain tough to beat, and educated handling coupled with thoughtful sourcing and reuse keeps the risks and costs manageable for most projects. It is this pragmatic, sometimes trial-and-error process that brings chemical innovation from lab benches into practical, real-world applications.
Product Name: 1-Butyl-2,3-Dimethylimidazolium Iodide
Molecular Formula: C9H17IN2
Molecular Weight: 292.15 g/mol
HS Code: 292519
Physical Form: Powder, flakes, pearls, crystal; solid at room temperature, liquid on melting
Density: 1.3 – 1.5 g/cm3 (approximate)
Solubility: Easily soluble in polar solvents; forms clear solutions
Material Type: Ionic salt; raw material for ionic liquids, electrolytes, catalysts
Handling: Store in cool, dry environment; use gloves and eye protection; follows chemical waste regulations
Hazard Identification: Irritant; exposure controls required for dust and fumes
