1-Decyl-3-methylimidazolium hydrogen sulfate stands out among ionic liquids. Its formula, C14H28N2O4S, ties together a decyl and methyl group attached to an imidazolium ring and is paired with a hydrogen sulfate anion. The structure creates a strong combination that influences the physical and chemical behavior of the substance. The molecular weight checks in around 320.45 g/mol, giving it a comfortable fit in both laboratory-scale applications and larger pilot plant projects.
The compound shows up in several ways: clear and viscous liquid, pale-yellow crystal, or sometimes as a powder or small, bead-like pearls. Handling a liter of the liquid feels like working with a heavy oil; its density ranges around 1.1–1.2 g/cm3 at room temperature. Flakes and crystalline forms stay stable, which makes storage and transport convenient for researchers and manufacturers. Solubility sets it apart—this salt dissolves in water and polar organic solvents, forming transparent solutions that leave no residue behind. The melting point floats between 20°C and 40°C, depending on purity, and this range brings flexibility for use as a solvent medium in various temperature settings. At room temperature, the product shows a slight viscosity that signals purity and low volatility. Its thermal stability gives confidence—experiments and industrial processes can push above 150°C without rapid decomposition.
1-Decyl-3-methylimidazolium hydrogen sulfate usually starts with quality raw materials found in organic synthesis labs. The decyl group comes from decyl bromide or decyl chloride, reacting with methylimidazole before swapping halides for hydrogen sulfate using sulfuric acid. Proper control over reactants and purification steps guarantees stable supply and consistent product, which means less trouble for both research and industry users. As a result, the final compositions often stay tightly within specifications, supporting repeatable processes and integration in new projects.
This ionic liquid turns up in several fields. In chemical synthesis, it acts as a versatile solvent—one that tolerates water and some harsher organic compounds. Catalysis research leans on its ability to dissolve both organic and inorganic substances, especially metals and non-metals that need a special medium. Electroplating labs choose this material for its conductivity and stability, bypassing older, hazardous solvents. Extraction and separation technologies benefit from the liquid’s selective solvation abilities—separating difficult-to-isolate components from mixtures. In some cases, researchers use it as a base electrolyte for advanced batteries because its non-flammable nature improves safety over hazardous, volatile organic liquids. Its robust behavior against acids and bases helps streamline waste treatment and recycling, particularly when processing complex effluents from industry.
1-Decyl-3-methylimidazolium hydrogen sulfate follows strict specifications. Most manufacturers aim for purity above 98%, water content below 0.5%, with halide and metal impurities controlled down to just a few parts per million. Viscosity and density get regular spot checks, giving labs a look at how the batch will perform during synthesis. Large-scale users pay close attention to color and clarity, which often signal smooth vs rough purification upstream. Shipments come with certificates, not only verifying chemical identity but clearing the way for use in regulated industries.
Handling 1-decyl-3-methylimidazolium hydrogen sulfate means taking practical safety steps. Like many ionic liquids, it resists catching fire, so flammability doesn’t pose a big risk. Contact with strong oxidizers should always be avoided; mixing can trigger unwanted reactions or degrade the liquid. The material classifies as low toxic, but prolonged skin contact or inhalation may irritate sensitive individuals. Gloves and goggles keep most labs out of trouble, and proper ventilation helps when working with open solutions or powders. Spills clean up with soap and water, rather than needing harsh solvents or neutralizers, which simplifies training for new workers. Disposal follows local hazardous waste protocols—a must despite its solid safety record, since ionic liquids aren’t yet included in bioremediation routines. Storage works best in tightly sealed bottles, kept away from strong acids and bases to prevent slow decomposition and to avoid product loss through water uptake from the air. Labeling packs usually includes ‘hazardous’ under the chemical classification, but material safety data sheets specify the practical risk as low compared to volatile organic raw materials. Its HS Code—often 2933.39—covers heterocyclic compounds with nitrogen, guiding customs clearance and international shipments.
Research teams find this ionic liquid opens up cleaner, more efficient process routes. In my own experience, watching new students run organometallic reactions in a glovebox, swapping out traditional, risky solvents for 1-decyl-3-methylimidazolium hydrogen sulfate removed the smell, reduced accidents, and let us recycle solvents almost endlessly. Data backs this up: ionic liquids slash volatile organic chemical (VOC) exposure by 60% or more in some lab and pilot plant tests. Real value comes in the details—surface cleaning leaves little residue, which makes equipment turnarounds faster. Some industry users now pair this raw material with greener feedstocks to push for sustainable goals, avoiding ingredients that require hazardous extraction or disposal. While the world needs careful stewardship of novel chemicals, the shift toward ionic liquids like this one—the safety, the flexibility, the low emissions—carries a promise for both the lab coat crowd and broader society.
