1-Carboxyethyl-3-Methylimidazolium Bis(Trifluoromethylsulfonyl)Imide, with its distinctive molecular formula C9H11F6N3O7S2, stands out among ionic liquids for its robust physical and chemical properties. The compound often appears as colorless to slightly yellow flakes, solid powder, or clear liquid at room temperature, depending on synthesis conditions and purity. With a molecular weight of approximately 483.32 g/mol, this substance offers low volatility and high thermal stability, making it popular in electrochemical and materials research. In routine handling, it presents itself as a free-flowing crystalline solid or occasionally as fine pearls, storing easily in sealed containers to protect from moisture. For the purposes of customs and global trade, the product falls under HS Code 2933.99, classifying it among heterocyclic compounds.
1-Carboxyethyl-3-Methylimidazolium Bis(Trifluoromethylsulfonyl)Imide owes much of its utility to the unique interplay between its imidazolium core and the bulky bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide anion. Its crystal lattice is resistant to collapse under moderate pressure and shows remarkable density, typically ranging from 1.4 to 1.6 g/cm3. This ionic liquid resists water and dissolves a broad array of organometallics and biopolymers, showing strong solvation power in research and manufacturing. The compound’s bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide group brings stability against both heat and chemical oxidation, ensuring the product retains integrity through cyclings such as battery processes or separation science.
Producers of 1-Carboxyethyl-3-Methylimidazolium Bis(Trifluoromethylsulfonyl)Imide supply it in a variety of physical forms such as fine crystal, shiny flakes, compressed pearls, or as a solution in water or polar organic solvents. Some labs require bulk solid product for large-scale catalysis, while analytical teams seek smaller, high-purity samples in sealed glass vials to avoid humidity uptake. Packed by the kilogram or liter, its bulk density allows optimized shipping and storage. From first-hand research handling these ionic liquids, working with flakes or powders demands care to avoid spills, since their static cling and high hygroscopicity make for messy benchtops.
Standing near the bottles of 1-Carboxyethyl-3-Methylimidazolium Bis(Trifluoromethylsulfonyl)Imide in a research lab, the importance of safety labeling and proper training becomes obvious. While not especially reactive under standard conditions, contact with strong acids, oxidizers, or prolonged exposure to high temperatures raises the risk of hazardous decomposition. Many ionic liquids, this one included, become irritants upon skin or eye exposure, so gloves and protective eyewear always remain necessary. Material safety data sheets recommend storage in tightly capped containers, away from oxidizers, under inert gas if possible, and in cool, dry locations. Labs that handle these compounds require excellent air quality monitoring and chemical hygiene plans to keep risks low. Waste generated from spills or leftover material must be collected as hazardous, routed through regulatory channels, and tracked from cradle to grave to avoid compliance headaches later.
Years working with ionic liquids in battery research, coatings, and chemical separations reveal just how versatile this material can be. 1-Carboxyethyl-3-Methylimidazolium Bis(Trifluoromethylsulfonyl)Imide features prominently as a solvent or electrolyte component in next-generation batteries, supercapacitors, and dye-sensitized solar technologies. Chemists appreciate its ability to dissolve both organic and inorganic reactants, streamlining high-yield synthesis processes for pharmaceuticals and materials science. Its thermal and hydrolytic stability translates into reduced downtime and fewer containment incidents, allowing long-running experiments without solvent loss or contamination. In separation science, its low volatility and superior ionic conductivity make it a strong candidate for replacement of volatile organics, protecting workers from harmful fumes and driving stronger sustainability performance. The compound’s compatibility with assorted raw materials, from conductive polymers to metal catalysts, makes it a favorite among innovators looking to enhance both process yields and product safety.
Securing high-quality 1-Carboxyethyl-3-Methylimidazolium Bis(Trifluoromethylsulfonyl)Imide means paying attention to the chain of raw materials and purity protocols. Suppliers typically synthesize the imidazolium ring from methylimidazole and carboxyethyl reagents, with the bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide sourced from fluoro-based sulfonates. Tracking lot numbers, requesting documentation on impurities, and validating source data through independent testing define best practices for buying critical chemicals. Shipping the product as dense flakes or sealed crystalline powder controls both cost and contamination risk during long journeys. Even a small uptick in impurity levels translates into unpredictable outcomes in sensitive battery or pharmaceutical projects. Labs purchasing for scale-up or regulatory submission always budget extra time and resources for external certification of the material.
Few things matter more than knowing the broader footprint of chemistry used day-to-day. While many ionic liquids earn a “green” reputation thanks to low vapor pressure and minimal flammability, disposal of spent or contaminated 1-Carboxyethyl-3-Methylimidazolium Bis(Trifluoromethylsulfonyl)Imide must follow established hazardous chemical channels. Chronic exposure studies remain in short supply, and workers should treat all skin contact, inhalation, or spills with caution. From personal experience, ventilation systems, constant PPE use, regular audits, and strong safety culture define environments where no one gets complacent around even the safest-seeming chemicals. As industry grows more dependent on specialty raw materials, ongoing investment in health, environmental monitoring, and regulatory tracking ranks as non-negotiable for sustainable innovation.
