1-Carboxyethyl-3-Methylimidazolium Trifluoromethanesulfonate belongs to the family of ionic liquids known for their stability, low volatility, and strong ionic character. This material arises from the reaction between 1-methylimidazole derivatives and 1-carboxyethyl groups, pairing with the trifluoromethanesulfonate anion. Products like this catch chemists’ attention with their distinct functional groups that give rise to interesting thermal, solubility, and conductivity features. In research and industry alike, having access to this compound in solid, powder, or liquid form opens the door for innovation. Labs count on its purity and predictability, rooted in controlled molecular synthesis and structure. HS Code classification for this compound often falls under 2933.99, specifically listing heterocyclic compounds, which brings regulatory understanding into the handling, transport, and licensing process.
At the heart of its physical and chemical properties, the cation structure features an imidazolium ring with a carboxyethyl group at one position and a methyl group at another. The anion, trifluoromethanesulfonate (CF3SO3−), lends this compound stability and a high degree of solubility across polar and some non-polar solvents. The molecular formula comes to C9H13F3N2O5S, reflecting a robust skeleton with significant mass contributed by fluorine and sulfonate groups. Crystals often form as colorless or faintly colored solid flakes, solid powder, or even as bead-like pearls, depending on the processing method and purity level achieved. I've seen the density measured in the range of 1.3–1.5 g/cm³ at ambient conditions, a result that signifies substantial contribution from the sulfonate and fluorinated elements that weigh down the molecule. As for liters and solution preparation, given the ionic nature, even small quantities dissolve efficiently, producing stable, non-volatile solutions that resist thermal breakdown.
In laboratories, users value this substance for its broad liquid phase window and resistance to decomposition under heat, outpacing many common organic solvents. Low vapor pressure, a benefit of many ionic liquids, stands out, reducing the risk of inhalation and environmental emission. Electronic and electrochemical applications gain from its high ionic conductivity, a direct result of the charge distribution within the imidazolium ring and triflate. I've watched researchers use 1-Carboxyethyl-3-Methylimidazolium Trifluoromethanesulfonate in battery research, dye-sensitized solar cells, and selective catalysis, where its chemical inertia and organizing potential create measurable performance shifts. Solid forms, including crystalline flakes or powdered material, pack tightly and easily dissolve into water or other solvents, enabling measured, controlled reactions. As raw material, it mixes and reacts with a wide range of organics, metals, and polymers, expanding what’s possible in chemical processing.
Suppliers offer this compound in various physical states. The selection between flakes, fine powders, or rounded pearl forms usually reflects the downstream process, whether reconstitution, direct mixing, or dosing in automated equipment. In practice, large, well-formed crystals aid bulk handling, while powder forms accelerate dissolution in solvent preparation. Solutions in custom concentrations prove valuable—labs standardize stock liter solutions to simplify their daily routines, treating 1-Carboxyethyl-3-Methylimidazolium Trifluoromethanesulfonate as a building block for new electrochemical or green chemistry routes. Its density and ease of measurement also simplify mixing calculations, reducing weighing errors and batch-to-batch variability.
Every chemical brings some risk, and this compound is no exception. Toxicity data shows mild to moderate skin or eye irritation in case of improper handling, with respiratory risk limited thanks to low volatility. Its strong ionic bonds reduce environmental mobility; still, researchers ensure lab containment remains tight, especially during transfer and high-temperature applications. Material safety data sheets identify triflate salts as corrosive under certain exposures and recommend gloves, goggles, and proper local ventilation. Some reports link imidazolium derivatives to aquatic toxicity in the event of spillage. Regulatory authorities require clear labeling, sensible storage in sealed, moisture-free environments, and documentation of waste disposal in line with regulations covering both the organic cation and fluorinated anion.
The sourcing chain for 1-Carboxyethyl-3-Methylimidazolium Trifluoromethanesulfonate starts with high-purity imidazole and methylating reagents. Producers double down on quality, which reduces unwanted impurities that can interfere in fine chemical syntheses. The trifluoromethanesulfonic acid route contributes the necessary triflate group, usually in anhydrous conditions to prevent hydrolysis. Trusted suppliers provide documentation on origin, batch analysis, and product traceability, which reassures both manufacturers and end-users regarding integrity and suitability for regulated environments. As global chemistries shift toward green solvents and sustainable processing, materials like this ionic liquid represent a practical step: lower emissions, fewer harmful byproducts, and improved operator safety.
Many sectors face pressure to cut hazardous waste and move away from volatile organic solvents. Transitioning to safer, more sustainable options, like 1-Carboxyethyl-3-Methylimidazolium Trifluoromethanesulfonate, offers real benefits. This compound delivers on performance without compounding safety or environmental risks. Labs that focus on electrochemistry, catalysis, or advanced materials use these ionic liquids to replace older, toxic reagents. In practice, scaling up production hinges on both cost and accessibility of raw materials. Advances in synthetic protocols, process control, and purification drive down costs, making these specialty chemicals more attainable for smaller programs and startups. Training on safe handling, the use of closed systems, and investment in spill control further contains any residual risks.
| Molecular Formula | C9H13F3N2O5S |
| HS Code | 2933.99 |
| Physical Forms | Powder, flakes, pearls, crystals, solution |
| Density | 1.3–1.5 g/cm³ |
| Appearance | Colorless or faintly colored solid; can form clear to slightly cloudy solution |
| Solubility | Soluble in water and polar organic solvents |
| Safety | Low volatility, mild to moderate irritant, gloves and goggles recommended |
| Transport and Storage | Sealed, moisture-free, standard hazardous material protocols |
