1-Butylsulfonic-3-ethylimidazolium trifluoromethanesulfonate is a specialized chemical material used across various research and industrial fields. It belongs to the family of ionic liquids, holding significance due to its stable ionic nature and unique blend of physical characteristics. Its molecular formula, C10H19F3N2O5S2, points to a structure where an imidazolium ring meets both butylsulfonic and ethyl functional groups, balanced with a trifluoromethanesulfonate anion. In the lab, this substance offers high ionic conductivity, low volatility, and notable thermal and electrochemical stability. Researchers often turn to this compound when a non-volatile, thermally robust solution is required. Its importance becomes clear in the context of green chemistry, battery development, and advanced catalysis.
This compound serves in both solid and liquid forms, adapting based on storage temperature and purity. Flakes, powders, pearls, and crystalline solids can all show up in the marketplace or laboratory shelf, giving users flexibility depending on handling needs. On sight, some batches appear transparent with a slight yellowish tint due to trace impurities. The compound's density reaches roughly 1.34 g/cm3, and the melting point shifts near 80 °C, placing it in the solid range for most room-temperature uses. In terms of solubility, the material dissolves well in water and many organic solvents, supporting reactions where homogenous mixing helps drive efficiency and safety. With low vapor pressure, emissions to the environment stay small, adding a safety benefit during processes that heat or stir the solution for extended periods.
The molecular structure centers on an imidazolium backbone. The N3-position carries a butylsulfonic group, which introduces both hydrophilic and functional reactivity. The ethyl group adds to the side chain, tuning viscosity and flow. The trifluoromethanesulfonate anion brings electronegative stability, supporting ionic interactions without introducing hazardous halides on reaction completion. Typical specifications for laboratory-grade batches list purity over 99%, minimal heavy metal content, and water content below 0.5%. The chemical formula, C10H19F3N2O5S2, underpins consistent performance in applications ranging from analytical standards to electrolytic cells.
From firsthand experience, labs focused on developing new electrolytes for lithium-ion batteries or exploring alternative solvents for organic synthesis find value in this ionic liquid. Its high ionic conductivity makes it a fit for next-generation battery prototypes and supercapacitors. In the world of catalysis, the compound supports transition metal catalysts, boosting selectivity and lifespan with less need for organic solvents. Environmental labs looking to move away from volatile organics use this substance as a green alternative for extraction or separation projects. Since it’s not prone to evaporation, lab air stays clean. As a raw material, its resilience at elevated temperatures makes it reliable as a supporting medium for difficult or long reactions. The compound holds a position in bulk synthesis of pharmaceuticals where process safety and product isolation matter.
Direct handling calls for caution. The substance may cause mild irritation with skin or eye contact. Prolonged exposure or inhalation of dust (from powders or flakes) should be avoided, and labs regularly use gloves and goggles during transfer or preparation. Based on current safety data, the chemical does not carry extreme acute hazards, but chronic exposure studies remain limited. Any accidental release in the lab or plant requires collecting residues using absorbent materials and thorough surface cleaning. Waste disposal must comply with hazardous chemical management guidelines, as the trifluoromethanesulfonate anion resists easy breakdown in municipal waste streams. Storage in tightly closed containers, away from strong acids or bases, improves longevity and reduces risk of accidental reaction.
The Harmonized System (HS) Code for 1-butylsulfonic-3-ethylimidazolium trifluoromethanesulfonate typically falls under 2921.29 for organic bases and their salts, but country rules may adjust final classification. Shipments passing international borders must go with proper paperwork, material safety data sheets, and clear indication of the chemical’s trade name and hazard level. Regulatory bodies in the United States and Europe treat this material as a specialty raw material. Review of current REACH and TSCA rules shows no outright ban, but environmental release must still respect protocols for fluorinated sulfonate derivatives.
Every material like 1-butylsulfonic-3-ethylimidazolium trifluoromethanesulfonate brings both opportunity and responsibility. In practice, using closed systems and established protocols for weighing, transferring, and storage helps avoid unnecessary exposure and waste. Swapping traditional volatile solvents with ionic materials like this cuts down on emissions and exposures—steps that protect both workers and the environment. Facilities moving toward circular economy models can target solvent recovery and recycling, especially since this kind of chemical tends to remain intact after many uses. On the production side, manufacturers should keep an eye on purity controls and waste stream separation, maintaining both cost efficiency and health protections. Researchers can share findings on biodegradation, alternate disposal techniques, and recovery methods, pushing forward best practices for this class of raw material.
