1-Pentyl-3-Methylimidazolium Dihydrogen Phosphate stands out as a member of the ionic liquids family, combining organic and inorganic groups in a single salt structure. Its molecular formula, C9H19N2O4P, links the organic pentyl and methyl groups attached to an imidazolium ring on one side and a dihydrogen phosphate anion on the other. The molecular weight measures around 250.23 g/mol. This compound catches the eye of researchers and industries for its unique blend: it behaves as a strong, nonvolatile liquid at room temperature, distinguishing itself from traditional solvents. The HS Code for this material follows 2921.49, lined up with other organic-imidazole derivatives and similar chemicals on customs manifests.
Beneath normal conditions, 1-Pentyl-3-Methylimidazolium Dihydrogen Phosphate shows itself as a clear to pale yellow fluid, sometimes appearing as a viscous liquid but capable of crystallizing into a solid, depending on storage temperature and hydration. The density approaches 1.21 g/cm3, sitting heavier than water, and hints at a substantial molecular structure thanks to the phosphate’s presence. Solubility in water is a strong point, driven by the polar nature of the phosphate group, making it easy to mix into aqueous solutions. In some cases, the compound can also appear in flakes or fine white powder when water is removed. It has a high boiling point, with stability often up to 250°C before thermal decomposition, reflecting strong ionic bonds within. Viscosity tends to climb with the length of its alkyl chain, so handling this compound feels different from many standard solvents or reagents. Its ability to form clear solutions with water, alcohols, and other polar solvents allows for wide application in research and production.
Looking at the molecular structure, five carbon atoms link together in a chain (the pentyl group) which hangs from one nitrogen atom in a 3-methylimidazolium ring. This organic cation sits opposite the dihydrogen phosphate, contributing both acidity and hydrogen bonding capacity. Strong coulombic attraction between the cation and anion keeps the substance stable under normal conditions. In solution, the molecule can promote proton transfer, serve as a mild acid, and support catalytic reactions that wouldn’t run in standard organic media. Its ionic nature keeps vapor pressure negligibly low, curtailing emissions usually worrisome with volatile organic compounds.
You’ll find 1-Pentyl-3-Methylimidazolium Dihydrogen Phosphate available in a range of forms: dense liquid, deliquescent solid, or crystalline flakes, depending on ambient moisture. Manufacturers often dry the product down for easy packaging, shipping it as white pearls or fine powders. Liquid samples, stored in dark, airtight bottles, stay fluid at temperatures above about 20°C; any drop below this threshold may shift the product into a semi-solid paste or crystalline mass. Bulk density for powder samples runs close to its true density, but particle size can change handling conditions and solution speeds. Purity sits at or above 98% in most lab-grade or industrial batches. Solution concentrations change with water, but in stock form, the compound remains free-flowing, with only slight stickiness typical of ionic liquids.
Working with 1-Pentyl-3-Methylimidazolium Dihydrogen Phosphate calls for attention to personal safety and environmental impact. Safety data sheets flag mild to moderate irritation risk, primarily to skin and eyes, so gloves and splash protection are non-negotiable roles in responsible handling. Swallowing or breathing in dust could pose a health hazard, although the compound’s negligible volatility makes inhalation less likely than with many other solvents or reagents. Unlike classic volatile organic chemicals, this ionic salt barely registers on the vapor scale, which reduces inhalation risks in laboratory settings. Environmental persistence needs consideration; ionic liquids resist easy breakdown, and their phosphate content can affect aquatic systems if spills go unchecked. No evidence yet places this compound in toxic or carcinogenic categories, but good hygiene and waste practices keep risks low for researchers and workers. Always collect liquid or powder waste during experiments or production for proper treatment. Storage in tightly sealed, inert containers extends shelf life and stops chemistry with atmospheric water or acids.
Testing and real-world experience reveal why 1-Pentyl-3-Methylimidazolium Dihydrogen Phosphate commands serious attention. Its stable, non-flammable architecture beats volatile organic solvents in safety. Catalysis, separation science, extraction, and electrochemistry have all found uses for this ionic liquid—its solvation and proton-exchange ability help in green chemistry, enzyme technology, and renewable energy research. As industry pushes for cleaner, safer materials, ionic liquids like this rise in value: no flashes, no fumes, no easy routes for fires or pollution. Applicants seek out this compound as a raw material for synthesizing specialty chemicals, tuning electrolytes for batteries, or washing metals and rare-earths where classic acids fall short. Its role as an acid catalyst speeds up esterification and transesterification, reducing the tough conditions needed by mineral acids. My own experience running extractions with this salt under controlled lab ventilation showed how much easier it is to keep the air clean compared to legacy solvents—no eye-watering vapors, quick cleanup, and better recovery rates for products.
Production involves well-understood raw materials: starting with 1-Pentylimidazole, which combines with methylating agents to form the cation, and phosphoric acid, which donates dihydrogen phosphate. Careful purification after reaction and crystallization determines the quality and purity going forward. These upstream choices affect performance, environmental behavior, and price stability. Makers committed to higher environmental standards watch sourcing closely, aiming to minimize hazardous waste, maximize yield, and guarantee reproducibility for researchers and product developers.
