1-Dodecyl-3-Methylimidazolium Trifluoromethanesulfonate stands out as an ionic liquid most widely referenced in chemical and materials research. Chemically, it carries a long dodecyl (C12) hydrocarbon tail and a methyl-functionalized imidazolium ring. The anion attached is trifluoromethanesulfonate, which is well known for its thermal stability and hydrophobic properties. With the molecular formula C17H33F3N2O3S, this compound offers a unique mix of organic and inorganic features, which opens a doorway for innovative work in chemistry and engineering.
The structure is clear and robust, with the imidazolium head nestled next to the dodecyl chain, while the sulfonate provides increased solubility in a range of environments. Researchers seeking advanced chemical building blocks frequently look to 1-Dodecyl-3-Methylimidazolium Trifluoromethanesulfonate for its ability to blend ionic strength with organic compatibility. Based on standard regulatory reporting, this substance carries the Harmonized System (HS) code 292529, placing it squarely in the group of organic compounds containing nitrogen-functionality. This transparency is crucial to ensure goods flow smoothly across borders and are easily identified in customs systems.
The physical state of 1-Dodecyl-3-Methylimidazolium Trifluoromethanesulfonate shifts with environmental conditions. In solid form, the substance often manifests as white or off-white crystalline flakes or powder, but it can present as pearly grains depending on drying and preparation methods. Heating above room temperature transforms the material into a clear, viscous liquid with mild odor, staying stable up to high temperatures due to the strength of the trifluoromethanesulfonate anion.
Measured density generally sits in the range of 1.12–1.18 g/cm³ at standard temperature, with reliable flow characteristics in solution and molten states. Commercial offerings feature tightly controlled purity and water content, giving users flexibility whether the product goes into material synthesis, catalysis, or electrochemical research. Solubility stands out. In polar solvents like water or acetonitrile, the compound dissolves easily, while the dodecyl chain introduces distinct self-assembly abilities in less polar environments. The balance in the chemical structure supports unique applications ranging from stabilizing nanoparticles to acting as electrolyte components in advanced batteries.
On the molecular level, one finds a well-ordered combination that brings together the aromatic imidazolium ring, a dodecyl tail, and the electronegative sulfonate group. The long alkyl chain changes how the compound interacts with both hydrophobic and hydrophilic surfaces. It bridges organic and aqueous phases, which gives this material an edge for surface-active jobs. Researchers leverage this when creating emulsions and dispersions, or when tuning the polarity of a system for greater control over reactions.
The molecular weight clocks in at 402.52 g/mol, marking it as a mid-sized organic salt used mostly by researchers and sophisticated manufacturers. Each atom in the structure—especially the nitrogen and fluorine sites—plays a part in its reactivity, which is why this compound appears in scientific literature focused on catalysis and ionic conduction. In the bottle or drum, it often sits as a stable, slightly sticky substance. Once in solution, it quickly loosens, dissolving to reveal a clean, uniformly distributed molecular population.
Handling 1-Dodecyl-3-Methylimidazolium Trifluoromethanesulfonate calls for the same seriousness that goes into dealing with any engineered chemical. Most data sheets point to moderate skin and eye irritation. Gloves, goggles, and well-ventilated spaces always stay at the top of the checklist for safe use. Material safety data highlight the need to avoid inhalation of fine powder or dust, as respiratory irritation can occur with repeated exposures. The compound doesn’t fall into the highest hazard categories, but in line with best practice, long-term or high-volume users should monitor for skin dryness and allergic responses, even if such events rarely arise based on published toxicology.
Disposal asks for extra care. Ionic liquids often resist normal biological breakdown, so direct introduction into wastewater doesn’t suit environmental goals. Chemical waste collection processes can handle spent product or waste solutions, reducing ecological impact and aligning with regulations for synthetic organics. Spills clean up easily using non-combustible absorbent material. To further reduce risk, always seal original packaging tightly and store the compound away from heat, strong oxidizers, and moisture sources.
Production of 1-Dodecyl-3-Methylimidazolium Trifluoromethanesulfonate starts with two key building blocks. The imidazole ring precursor, usually available in bulk, anchors the molecule, while dodecyl chloride or a related linear alkyl compound provides the long hydrocarbon tail. Methylating agents layer in the single-carbon attachment, and finally, there’s an ion-exchange step that swaps a halide for the trifluoromethanesulfonate group. The process demands high-quality solvents and reaction control, given that impurities in the final crystal can affect both solubility and ionic conductivity.
People in the know about ionic liquids tend to respect the reliable properties of this compound. It pulls its weight whether people need high-performance raw materials or just a robust laboratory solvent for separating or stabilizing novel substances. Every shipment needs to stick to strict purity specifications, usually with water content monitored to under 0.3% by weight, and residual starting materials checked by mass spectrometry or similar tools. This hands-on attention means researchers and technologists get repeatable outcomes from batch to batch, which is where the trust in quality really builds.
Labs and suppliers typically offer 1-Dodecyl-3-Methylimidazolium Trifluoromethanesulfonate in several forms: crystalline solid, fine powder, glossy flakes, even as an aqueous or anhydrous solution. Whether the substance is poured from a drum as dense liquid or scooped as sparkly powder, the application prospects vary. Pure crystals support analytical chemistry and structural studies, while solutions ease dosing and handling for synthesis or spectroscopy.
Uses wind through chemical engineering, battery prototyping, nanoparticle stabilization, and advanced coatings. The compound’s ability to flex between phases gives it wide reach, particularly for people interested in ionic conductivity, catalysis, or developing greener reaction media. In my own run-ins with this kind of ionic liquid—usually during long hours at the fume hood—the power comes from its adaptability and reliability, not just its raw electrical or thermal profile. Volume users—whether in pilot plants or bench-scale labs—generally respect the balance of stability, solubility, and structural flexibility found in this material.
