1-Butyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride-ironum belongs to the family of ionic liquids, combining the 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium cation with an iron-containing anion. This hybrid material sees use where both chloride and iron ions play a key role in chemical reactions or specific industrial processes. Its structure consists of an organic cation, 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium (Bmim+), bonded ionically with a chloride-iron complex, often leading to surprising properties not found in traditional salts or solvents. For anyone working in materials science or chemical manufacturing, such a compound offers a bridge between organic and inorganic chemistry, allowing for flexibility in synthesis routes and finished products.
The molecular structure of 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride-ironum shows the organic imidazolium ring functionalized with a butyl and methyl group, connected to a chloride anion that supports or interacts with an iron ion, frequently as FeCl4- or FeCl3-. Molecular formulas can be written as C8H15N2ClFe when paired with FeCl4-. Under close examination, the material shows colored crystals, sometimes leaning amber or deep brown, reflecting unique light absorption from the d-block electron configuration of iron.
On the specification side, density generally ranges from 1.1 to 1.4 g/cm3 at room temperature. The compound appears in several forms, including solid flakes, fine powder, irregular pearls, or glossy crystals. Some labs favor the material as a liquid or in solution, especially when used in catalysis or as an electrochemical medium. The melting point can differ by the specific ratio of chloride to iron, but it sits lower than many inorganic salts—part of what sets ionic liquids apart. Standard packaging includes glass vials for small quantities and plastic-lined drums for bulk.
For customs and trade, the HS code for this compound often aligns with organic salts or ionic liquid categories, sometimes 3824.99 (for prepared chemicals, n.e.s.) or closely related codes depending on the market. Anyone handling international shipment should stay aware of shifting regulations as authorities update their stance on specialty chemicals. Safety data sheets provide vital reference on correct labeling and transit protocols.
This material offers low volatility and strong thermal stability. The presence of iron changes behaviors often seen in regular 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride, including magnetism and visible color. Iron’s oxidation states allow redox reactions important for extraction, electroplating, and catalysis. The strong ionic character means it dissolves polar and even some nonpolar materials, widening the application envelope beyond classic organic or aqueous solvents. In practice, this compound resists evaporation and supports non-flammable working environments, which matters in facilities wary of fire hazards.
Safety always enters the conversation around laboratory and industrial chemicals, especially one with transition metals and halides. 1-Butyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride-ironum does not vaporize significantly under normal use, reducing inhalation risks. Skin and eye contact call for the same precautions as other ionic liquids—a lab coat, gloves, and goggles stand as minimum standards. Slips and spills require careful, prompt cleaning, since the viscous liquid or crystalline flakes can linger on surfaces. The iron and chloride ions can pose health issues if ingested or introduced to open wounds, with possible toxic effects from iron overload or chloride irritation. Waste streams containing this salt need treatment to keep heavy metals and halides out of groundwater.
Sourcing relies on pure 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride and high-purity iron chloride salts. Some producers synthesize the imidazolium cation in controlled reactors, starting from methylimidazole and butyl chloride before a final anion exchange stage. Iron sources include ferric chloride or ferrous chloride, chosen based on target properties. Blending and purification occur in tightly monitored environments so product meets both the spec sheet and safe handling expectations. Supply chain traceability proves vital, especially for pharmaceutical or microelectronics end-users, given concerns about contaminants and consistent physical characteristics.
1-Butyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride-ironum fills roles in green chemistry, electrochemistry, extraction, and catalysis. As industries seek to reduce use of volatile organic solvents and hazardous reagents, ionic liquids like this one gain ground. They combine low flammability with selective solvency, broadening options for clean technology and recycling. Still, disposal and lifecycle risks remain—iron and chloride species have known effects on aquatic ecosystems. To limit impact, manufacturers and users can invest in closed-loop recycling of spent solutions, advanced filtration, and employee training. The more clearly material flows are documented, the easier it becomes to anticipate and manage hazards down the line. In this field, I’ve watched chemists build real trust with downstream users by sharing testing results and offering transparent MSDS documents. As new regulatory landscapes emerge worldwide, being forthright about density, physical state, and safe transport methods goes a long way toward keeping workers and communities protected without stalling innovation.
