1-Vinyl-3-Dodecylimidazolium Hexafluorophosphate offers a distinctive chemical fingerprint within the realm of ionic liquids. This compound brings together a vinyl group, an imidazolium core, and a long dodecyl side chain, paired with the hexafluorophosphate anion. That structure gives it particular value in specialized chemical research, electrochemistry, and advanced materials science. Unlike many commodity chemicals, its molecular design goes beyond simple functionality. The presence of the vinyl group means potential for facile polymerization or participation in copolymer synthesis, opening pathways to engineered materials with tunable electrical, thermal, and surface properties.
1-Vinyl-3-Dodecylimidazolium Hexafluorophosphate usually appears as flakes, solid clusters, fine powder, or even as smooth, crystalline pearls. Its density sits in the expected range for organic ionic salts, with measured values typically between 1.13 and 1.35 g/cm3 when stored in standard lab conditions. Upon visual inspection, this material ranges from off-white to pale yellow, crystalizing in well-formed, sometimes needle-like or plate-shaped pieces, depending on the crystalline batch and cooling rate during synthesis. Solubility stands out—showing moderate solubility in polar solvents, yet offering very low miscibility with non-polar hydrocarbons. Even the bottle’s cap may remind a chemist to wear gloves, since ionic liquids with long alkyl chains can display persistent oily textures and cling to glassware.
The chemical formula C17H31F6N2P breaks down into a 17-carbon backbone, flanked by imidazolium nitrogen atoms and capped with a dodecyl group. The hexafluorophosphate anion, PF6-, lends stability and remarkable insolubility to water—one of the reasons this compound substitutes older, less stable counterions in demanding settings. In terms of molecular mass, it tips the scales at roughly 422 g/mol. Molecular models show the dodecyl chain extending well away from the imidazolium core, influencing both its phase transitions and its interactions with polar surfaces or substrates.
Commercial suppliers target a purity exceeding 97%, driven by applications in catalysis, separation science, and lithium-ion battery electrolytes. Common batch sizes range from 5 grams for academic needs to kilograms for pilot plant evaluations. Melting point hovers around 60–90°C, though slight variations reflect subtle differences in the crystalline lattice built by manufacturer-specific conditions. HS Code for customs clearance lands under 2933.99, which buckets it with other nitrogen-containing heterocyclic compounds, highlighting the need for careful documentation during logistics. Each lot goes through NMR, FTIR, and elemental analysis to confirm structure and exclude trace synthesis impurities—a simple yet crucial step as even small amounts of inorganic residuals can skew downstream results.
Physical state directly impacts how researchers and technicians employ this material. In flake form, the product offers quick dissolution in polar solvents and is convenient for weighing. Finely milled powder accelerates mixing with resins and monomers, while larger pearls enhance dosing accuracy in automated systems. Some suppliers blend it into concentrated solutions—typically in acetonitrile, which supports direct injection for thin-film coatings or electrochemical cells. Crystalline batches function best for structural analysis or high-purity workflows. Each form brings its own storage quirks; the powder form tends to clump under high humidity, while crystals require avoidance of sudden thermal cycling to maintain desired phase properties.
1-Vinyl-3-Dodecylimidazolium Hexafluorophosphate, like many ionic liquids, resists rapid volatilization—this means reduced inhalation risk under ambient conditions. Still, hexafluorophosphate compounds react with moisture to generate hydrofluoric acid. Even trace contact with water triggers slow, dangerous release of HF, a notorious hazardous byproduct for both skin and respiratory tissues. Proper lab discipline involves airtight containers, desiccated storage, and full PPE: goggles, nitrile gloves, and fume hood use during transfers and weighing. As a raw material, it meets GHS labeling criteria for chemical irritants—direct skin contact and accidental splashes demand prompt washing and medical evaluation. Waste disposal goes through certified chemical disposal channels, given the persistence and toxicity of the PF6 anion in aquatic environments.
Polymer chemists turn to this material for its ability to guide ionic conductivity and enhance flexibility in membranes—a sharp contrast to classic imidazolium salts with shorter chains. The vinyl group means polymer researchers can tailor bulk properties by grafting or copolymerizing, adjusting transport or mechanical characteristics for custom scenarios. Electrochemistry labs use it for stable, low-volatility electrolytes in supercapacitors and batteries. Surface scientists test it for anti-static and anti-corrosive coatings. Its compatibility as a raw material in ionic liquid research means a steady market—driven by energy storage, sensor development, and even green solvent evaluation for extracting rare earth metals. Reporting its hazardous nature, structure, and specifications serves not just regulatory oversight, but keeps teams focused on responsible deployment in cutting-edge domains.
