1-Butylsulfonic-3-Methylimidazolium Hydrogensulfate, sometimes abbreviated as [BSO3HMIM][HSO4], stands out as a functional ionic liquid featuring strong acidic properties. This compound appears with the molecular formula C8H16N2O4S2 and reaches a molecular weight of about 284.36 g/mol. Its structure includes an imidazolium core substituted with a butylsulfonic group and paired with a hydrogensulfate counterion, which collectively offers both high ionicity and versatile chemical behavior.
Looking at the physical form, 1-Butylsulfonic-3-Methylimidazolium Hydrogensulfate can show up as a viscous liquid, pale yellow solid, or glossy crystalline powder depending on how and where it's stored. Most samples at room temperature exhibit a density ranging between 1.25 and 1.35 g/cm³. Water solubility is high; it dissolves rapidly and forms a clear solution. When poured out in larger amounts, the substance faintly smells of sulfur due to its sulfonic and hydrogensulfate components. You might come across it in forms like flakes, granules, pearls, solid chips, or as a bulk liquid, all tailored for direct chemical synthesis, catalysis, or research settings.
The imidazolium ring connects with a butylsulfonic side chain, making the cation both hydrophilic and capable of forming tight ion pairs with hydrogensulfate. This structure helps deliver strong acidic properties rivaling concentrated sulfuric acid, and such superacidic behavior drives its effectiveness as a catalyst for esterification, alkylation, and other acid-promoted industrial processes. The hydrogensulfate anion introduces hydrogen bonding ability, affecting reaction outcomes and sometimes boosting rates in water-miscible systems. The combination of robust acidity and non-volatility means it outperforms classic mineral acids in high-temperature or solvent-free conditions.
Direct skin or eye contact with 1-Butylsulfonic-3-Methylimidazolium Hydrogensulfate should be avoided. Its strong acidity can cause burns or irritation, and inhalation of aerosolized material might impact respiratory health. Always handle it in a well-ventilated lab or industrial environment, under proper chemical fume hoods or with adequate local exhaust. Standard lab PPE—gloves, goggles, long sleeves—reduces contact risk. Spilled solid or liquid should be contained using compatible inert absorbents, not diluted with water at the source because the heat from dilution may further aerosolize irritant vapors. Disposal follows hazardous organic waste protocols, and local regulations will specify allowable methods for hydrogensulfate and related raw materials.
In refineries, organic synthesis labs, and specialty chemical manufacturing, 1-Butylsulfonic-3-Methylimidazolium Hydrogensulfate’s use ties to its unique combination of acidity, low vapor pressure, and ionic conductivity. Acid catalysis for transesterification and alkylation scales up efficiently without the pollution or waste issues tied to mineral acids. Because it does not evaporate, there’s less loss during long reactions and less harm to operators and the environment. In fields like green chemistry, this kind of ionic liquid assists in extracting metals, dissolving cellulose, and unlocking new energy storage material pathways. While it brings huge potential, the raw materials involved are not trivial in cost, pressing for creative recycling and recovery strategies to keep process economics workable and environmental risks minimal.
Internationally, 1-Butylsulfonic-3-Methylimidazolium Hydrogensulfate ships under HS Code 2933299090, classified among other organic compounds with nitrogen heterocyclic structures. Transporting this material in large volumes means compliance with local hazardous material laws, and each shipment must carry exact labeling indicating content, concentration, and hazard profile. Storage comes down to keeping containers sealed, well-ventilated, dry, and away from incompatible substances like strong bases or reducing agents which can decompose the ionic liquid or generate heat and pressure. Every drum or bottle should feature batch numbers and safety documentation for tracking and workplace safety audits.
Cutting injury and contamination risks rise when handling hydrogensulfate salts or powders in open-air facilities, so using closed transfer systems and automated delivery lessens these direct exposures. Waste treatment remains critical—neutralizing spent solutions with sodium carbonate, then filtering out solid byproducts, protects drainage systems. Long-term environmental impact studies suggest most imidazolium salts resist rapid degradation; so implementing closed-loop recycling and on-site purification become part of sustainable management. Any research facility or manufacturer deploying this ionic liquid owes its workers regular safety briefings, real-time hazard communication, and clear spill management training, supported by up-to-date Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS).
Speaking as someone who has worked hands-on in chemical research, the safety, efficiency, and innovative edge of chemicals like 1-Butylsulfonic-3-Methylimidazolium Hydrogensulfate mean more than formulae or product codes. Experience shows that careful attention to properties, real-world hazards, and compliance does more than protect investments—it saves lives and keeps the planet in mind. While these materials open the door to cleaner, smarter chemistry, adoption needs commitments from suppliers, end-users, and regulators for long-term safety and best use. The challenges and opportunities sit right in front of us, from better lab protocols to greener, more cost-effective industrial routes. Responsible sourcing, education, and tech-driven stewardship will keep this valuable chemical working for, not against, society.
