1-Pentyl-2,3-Dimethylimidazolium Chloride belongs to a group of chemicals known as ionic liquids. With a molecular formula of C10H19ClN2, this material brings together a pentyl group, two methyl groups positioned at the 2 and 3 locations on an imidazolium ring, and a chloride anion. The structure includes a five-carbon straight alkyl side chain, which modifies the solubility, viscosity, and melting point of the final substance compared to similar ionic liquids with shorter groups. Looking at the IUPAC structure, the imidazolium ring forms the core of the molecule, with the attached pentyl and methyl chains influencing how the product reacts and behaves under different conditions.
This compound typically appears as a white to pale yellow solid or crystal at room temperature, shifting to a powder or crystalline flake form depending on storage and environmental conditions. The density measures around 1.07 to 1.20 g/cm3, showing minor variation due to hydration or particle size. Handling pounds or kilograms of the solid reveals a fine-grained, slightly sticky quality, especially if exposed to humidity for long. Sometimes, the product is supplied as granular pearls or flakes, which ease measuring and reduce dust compared to powders. As a pure liquid, 1-Pentyl-2,3-Dimethylimidazolium Chloride needs heating above its melting point, often a temperature near 80–130°C, depending on purity. Chemists often encounter this compound dissolved in solution form, typically aqueous or organic, with common concentrations by liter for laboratory or industrial needs.
By nature, this molecule shows high thermal stability and limited volatility, making it useful in settings requiring robust solvents and electrolytes. Its chloride counterion can engage in exchange reactions, allowing the imidazolium cation to form new salts or function in phase transfer. The alkyl substitutions alter hydrogen bonding and change how the chemical mixes with water or organics. This versatility gives it a reputation as a solvent, catalyst component, or raw material for specialty syntheses. The presence of the imidazolium ring brings positive charge, attracting attention for use in electrochemistry, extraction, and as a starting point for custom materials.
High-grade 1-Pentyl-2,3-Dimethylimidazolium Chloride often arrives in packaging that specifies purity, moisture content, and trace contaminants. Purity above 98% opens doors for advanced research and quality-driven manufacturing. Manufacturers may list melting point, residue on ignition, and water content on batch certificates. Trace metal content, chloride purity, and organic residue figures appear, as these numbers connect directly to safety and function in downstream uses. The chemical appears in solid, powdered, pearl, or flake packaging by kilogram or liter, depending on demand and application.
Global trade and logistics require clear identification, and the HS Code for 1-Pentyl-2,3-Dimethylimidazolium Chloride often falls within 2925.29 (quaternary ammonium salts and hydroxides) or nearby listings, depending on regional customs laws. Importers and exporters must align with the specific Harmonized System description to pass customs and meet documentation laws. Tracking the HS Code avoids confusion and delays, allowing chemical suppliers and end-users to maintain compliance and traceability in global commerce.
Handling 1-Pentyl-2,3-Dimethylimidazolium Chloride demands respect for chemical safety. While less volatile than traditional solvents, ionic liquids like this one can be irritating to skin, eyes, or respiratory tract when inhaled as fine powder. Wearing gloves, lab coats, and safety goggles remains standard; in my lab days, a casual dusting could cause itching and redness. Proper ventilation in storage and use prevents unwanted exposure. Some studies have found that similar imidazolium salts can harm aquatic life if not treated or disposed of responsibly, reflecting the need for robust waste treatment. Reports suggest toxicity varies by alkyl chain length, but as a rule, avoid direct contact, never ingest, and follow local hazardous chemical guidelines.
Labs and industry alike use 1-Pentyl-2,3-Dimethylimidazolium Chloride as a raw material for advanced synthesis, electrochemical applications, or as a unique solvent for extractive or catalytic systems. As demand for more sustainable or unusual solvents grows, interest follows efficient ionic liquids with specific melting points and polarity. Manufacturers often seek starting materials such as 1-pentylimidazole, methylation agents, and hydrochloric acid during synthesis, pointing to the time, care, and purity control required for reliable production. Many downstream uses center on electrochemistry, material science, and green chemistry due to the customizable nature of the imidazolium ring.
In practice, sourcing high-purity 1-Pentyl-2,3-Dimethylimidazolium Chloride calls for dependable suppliers with track records in ionic liquids. The push for sustainable production means firms must watch the environmental footprint of raw material extraction and waste disposal. Strict lab protocols protect users, supporting the idea that chemical progress walks hand-in-hand with safety. Sourcing, cost, and scaling-up from batch to industrial scale will keep challenging the market, while research into safer and even more robust ionic liquids continues. A clear MSDS, responsible labeling, and honest communication can help bridge the gap between laboratory curiosity and real-world application. By staying informed and leaning on experience, teams make safer choices bringing this specialized material to science and industry.
