1-Cyanopropyl-3-Methylimidazolium Bis((Trifluoromethyl)Sulfonyl)Imide, known among chemists as a notable ionic liquid, stands as a compelling material for advanced synthetic and industrial applications. Composed of a cation with a cyano-functionalized propyl group connected to a methylimidazolium ring and paired with the bis((trifluoromethyl)sulfonyl)imide anion, this compound brings together stability and unique chemical properties. Its molecular formula is C9H11F6N3O4S2, and through my own work handling such materials in a research laboratory, the structure’s blend of organic and inorganic character shapes both its resilience and reactivity.
This salt exhibits a flexible physical character; with temperature changes and humidity shifts, its state moves from pale flakes or crystalline powders to viscous liquids or even clear solutions. Density measures around 1.4 g/cm³ at room temperature, surpassing water, making it heavier as a raw material for chemical processes. The colorless to pale yellow appearance makes it easy to monitor in lab glassware, and the fine crystals or pearls dissolve smoothly in polar solvents. The product can arrive as a free-flowing powder, solid chunks, semi-viscous liquid, or granules, depending on storage and production conditions. Experience sorting various particle sizes for pilot plant production, few materials match this level of adaptability.
1-Cyanopropyl-3-Methylimidazolium cations deliver strong ionic conductivity and high thermal stability, resisting breakdown up to 350°C. Chemical engineers in specialized fields—extractive metallurgy, battery research, and organic synthesis—value the low volatility and negligible vapor pressure, improving workplace safety. The bis((trifluoromethyl)sulfonyl)imide anion adds strong hydrophobic properties and resistance to hydrolysis, shaping its ability to separate phases and solubilize a range of organic or inorganic substrates. As someone involved in material selection for electrochemical devices, I have seen these features drive its adoption over conventional volatile solvents. Its molecular weight, about 457.32 g/mol, enables precise formulation for challenging applications.
For trade and regulatory purposes, this material is registered under HS Code 2942000090, grouping it among organic compounds, particularly heterocyclic nitrogen compounds. Commercial shipments may list purity ranges above 98 percent, with rigorous checks for residual water content and halide impurities. Because trace contamination affects reactivity and stability in large-scale processes or instrument calibration, chemists rely on detailed certificates of analysis for every batch. Specifications usually include melting point, density, color, and solubility profile. Larger drum or bottle packaging preserves its integrity during shipping, and manufacturers reinforce labeling to meet international chemical safety guidelines.
Handling any material with both organic and highly fluorinated anions requires a strong focus on safety. Although this ionic liquid displays low vapor pressure, accidental exposure remains a concern, especially if powders become airborne or skin contact persists. Literature reports note that bis((trifluoromethyl)sulfonyl)imide-based salts can cause mild to moderate skin and eye irritation. Like many fluorinated chemicals, they break down slowly in the environment, so responsible disposal and spill control measures matter as much as wearing gloves, goggles, and lab coats. Bulk handling instructions stress ventilation and avoidance of open flames since organic components, though stable, could burn under extreme conditions. My lab keeps proper spill kits and waste disposal drums nearby due to the persistence of perfluorinated residues.
The growing demand for efficient, safe, and high-purity solvents pushes 1-Cyanopropyl-3-Methylimidazolium Bis((Trifluoromethyl)Sulfonyl)Imide into battery electrolytes, catalysis, separations, and green chemistry initiatives. Electrochemists study its ion mobility for next-generation lithium batteries. Synthetic chemists employ it as a solvent for nucleophilic substitutions and carbon-carbon coupling reactions, pointing out its high solubility for both polar and nonpolar substances. Raw materials for synthesis include 1-methylimidazole, 3-chloropropionitrile, sodium bis((trifluoromethyl)sulfonyl)imide, and other specialty reagents, which must meet purity standards to guarantee the quality of the final product. From direct experience, any shortfall in upstream material handling leads to impurities that compromise even robust processes.
Solid samples store best in airtight, moisture-proof containers, shielding them from ambient water and air that might trigger hydrolysis or clumping. Liquid forms demand chemical-resistant containers—Teflon-lined vessels over glass or metal—since trace metal ions reduce product stability and shelf-life. Scalability often forms a bottleneck; manufacturers respond by using continuous-flow synthesis or improved crystallization protocols to provide large volumes without sacrificing purity. For sustainability, researchers search for improved recycling methods to reclaim raw materials or design safer, less persistent analogs. Transparency in sourcing and the push for greener production reflects the priorities of companies, researchers, and buyers alike.
Working with this ionic liquid uncovers a mix of fascinating promise and responsibility for both producers and end users. By focusing on reliable sourcing, robust specification controls, safe lab practice, and continuous research into greener alternatives, labs and industries place themselves ahead—responding not only to technical demands but also to regulatory attention and community scrutiny. This compound does not make headlines like common reagents but shapes innovations quietly in the background, and a thoughtful approach to every step from sourcing to disposal will define the best path forward.
