1-Decyl-3-Methylimidazolium Bromide stands out as an ionic liquid salt crafted from a decyl-substituted imidazole ring paired with a methyl group at the 3-position, balanced by a single bromide ion. Chemists often label it under the molecular formula C14H27BrN2 and it falls under the HS Code 2933 for heterocyclic compounds. Physical samples appear either as off-white powder, waxy flakes, or clear, crystalline solids with a faint sheen, shifting in form based on ambient temperature and purity. The decyl group stretches the carbon backbone and gives this compound its hydrophobic tail, making it quite distinct in function and physical touch compared to smaller imidazolium salts.
The defining feature here is the one imidazolium ring bonded to a methyl group and a long decyl chain, together making this salt both bulky and amphiphilic. Its molecular weight sits near 319.29 g/mol. This combination allows the formation of layered, organized structures in the solid state, while lending fluidity in ionic liquid form. By introducing a longer alkyl chain, 1-Decyl-3-Methylimidazolium Bromide shows interesting behavior in solvents and forms structured mesophases in some contexts.
At standard laboratory temperatures, this compound usually shows up as solid flakes, powder, thick pearls, or at warmer conditions, transitions to a viscous liquid. The density hovers around 1.14 g/cm3, which feels a bit heavier between the fingers than typical organic salts. Some batches form crystals that refract light, and the larger grains often catch in sifter filters, resisting flow compared to fine powders. This behavior has direct effects in synthesis and formulation work. Its melting point ranges from 40°C to 60°C, depending on trace water and laboratory storage. Water absorbs easily, so handling requires vigilance to keep humidity out of sampling vials.
Drop this salt into water or certain organic solvents and it dissolves with robust ionic dissociation. The long alkyl chain allows selective solubility—wetter in polar alcohols, less so in pure hydrocarbons. Once in solution, the bromide ion plays a part in catalytic activity and extraction efficiency. Mix it in a beaker, the solution runs clear if the salt is pure, but waxy or opaque if contamination or moisture sneaks in. It can carry other reactive ions, chelate metals, and stabilize radical species, which explains why researchers use it in electrochemical deposits, phase transfer catalysts, and nanoparticle synthesis.
Practical experience teaches respect for this material in the lab. 1-Decyl-3-Methylimidazolium Bromide demonstrates low vapor pressure, and its neat form generally avoids inhalation risk unless vigorously agitated. Skin contact may irritate and trigger dryness, so gloves become a daily tool. Evidence shows ingestion or extended exposure, particularly to the bromide ion, brings risk of toxic reaction. Proper storage in cool, dry, well-ventilated cabinets reduces accidental exposure. Scrupulous adherence to chemical handling guides and close reference to Safety Data Sheets matter for workplace health and community safety. Cleanup with absorbent, non-reactive material keeps spills from traveling through drains and reaching sensitive waterways.
Industries seek out this compound as a raw material for novel solvents and as a stabilizer in organic synthesis. Its role as an ionic conductor in batteries and fuel cells cannot be understated. The key lies in its structural flexibility, offering new routes for green chemistry and efficient catalysis pathways. Formulators tap 1-Decyl-3-Methylimidazolium Bromide to create task-specific ionic liquids, boosting selectivity and recyclability. Scale-up, as some colleagues will attest, demands strict raw material qualification and batch-to-batch quality confirmation, particularly for high-purity requirements in pharmaceutical and electronics processes.
Manufacturers across the globe push forward eco-friendly protocols—recycling, proper waste segregation, and minimized run-off. Sharing knowledge of safe transport, spill response, and secondary containment in community outlets helps prevent serious accidents. Substituting less hazardous and biodegradable alternatives supports sustainable growth and meets tightening regulatory demands. Transparent supply chains, coupled with stronger cross-disciplinary dialogue between academic researchers and industry professionals, could address toxicity worries and foster responsible stewardship. Desktop simulations and scale models help predict compound behavior, reducing the need for excessive stockpiling and limiting the chemical’s footprint.
