Ethyl(2-methoxyethyl)dimethylammonium bis(fluorosulfonyl)imide belongs to the class of ionic liquids that blend the flexible properties of organic cations with the high-performance nature of bis(fluorosulfonyl)imide anions. Over the years, researchers and manufacturers have turned to this compound for its remarkable stability and tunable features, especially for use in new-generation electrolytes and specialty synthesis tasks. As global industry needs push for alternatives to volatile organic solvents and safer chemical materials, this compound often steps into the spotlight for its low vapor pressure and high ionic conductivity.
Ethyl(2-methoxyethyl)dimethylammonium bis(fluorosulfonyl)imide typically arrives as a colorless to pale yellow substance. Depending on ambient temperature and storage conditions, physical appearance shifts from viscous liquid to fine crystalline solid, and sometimes forms as flakes, powder, or even pearls. The chemical structure includes an ammonium head, where ethyl and methoxyethyl side chains add organic flexibility, while the bis(fluorosulfonyl)imide anion drives its high chemical resilience and fast ionic transfer. This specific combination pushes the melting range below room temperature and can create a flowable, non-volatile material. The molecular formula comes together as C7H17F2N2O5S2. Each aspect of the structure contributes to unique properties; density generally falls between 1.35 and 1.45 g/cm³, and in concentrated form the compound displays a glassy appearance or sometimes clear, dense liquefaction in laboratory vials.
Many professionals value this ionic liquid for its high electrochemical window, which lends exceptional performance in lithium battery applications and specialty catalysis. Unlike simple quaternary ammonium compounds, this material resists degradation under both oxidative and reductive stress. Water solubility sits low, so it’s best handled in dry environments when purity matters most. Dielectric constant and viscosity adjust with temperature, and as a result, battery scientists control conditions closely during use. Ionic conductivity, the main advantage, drives innovation for safer, more efficient energy storage and industrial extraction. In my time working with advanced materials, discovery often comes with unexpected results—when handling this liquid, I've noticed its ability to wet surfaces without leaving residual layers or hazardous fumes.
This compound can be sold as a crystalline solid, a granular powder, flakes, or in bulk solution depending on transport needs. The crystalline lattice organizes into dense arrangements powered by ionic looping, which helps explain its durable and repeatable performance in energy applications. Density remains consistent in pure batches, measuring closer to 1.4 g/cm³—always double-check with the supplier’s lot certificate, as moisture or trace impurities shift readings. Laboratory users sometimes prepare dilute solutions in polar aprotic solvents or in mixtures designed for electrochemistry. Liquids pour with high viscosity at lower temperatures, so pre-warming may ease transfer into reaction vessels or electrolyte chambers.
Ethyl(2-methoxyethyl)dimethylammonium bis(fluorosulfonyl)imide carries both beneficial features and some typical chemical risks. While much less volatile than conventional organic solvents, the bis(fluorosulfonyl)imide anion introduces some hydrolysis sensitivity, creating potentially harmful byproducts if exposed to strong acids or bases. Always avoid skin and eye contact to prevent irritation. Proper personal protective equipment—nitrile gloves, goggles, splash-resistant lab coats—should stay at hand, especially during weighing and transfer. Spills clean up with dry inert absorbents, never water, since water can trigger slow decomposition. Accidental releases or improper storage also threaten local environments, so double containment and sealed packaging protect both staff and laboratory assets.
Shipping and customs authorities classify this compound using the Harmonized System (HS) code for organic chemicals, often 2921.19 or a similar number, reflecting its quaternary ammonium salt nature. Importers and exporters must check with local regulatory guides about permitted uses, transport requirements, and documentation needs. Material safety data sheets (MSDS) provide a full run-down of exposure limits, spill controls, storage tips, and emergency actions. Due respect to labeling laws, environmental controls, and waste disposal rules keeps users on the right side of compliance and makes future innovations possible.
Labs and industrial producers create ethyl(2-methoxyethyl)dimethylammonium bis(fluorosulfonyl)imide from foundational ammonium salts and sulfonyl fluoride reagents. Good manufacturers rely on high-purity raw materials and closed systems to avoid contamination. Each step in synthesis—mixing, filtration, purification, and recrystallization—determines the quality, so reputable suppliers back their lots with rigorous analysis and purity documentation. Strength in supply chain assurance grows from transparency, traceability, and willingness to answer buyer questions about origin, process, and sustainability. Only select sources achieve low water content and stable product, which ultimately helps end-users—like battery engineers and research chemists—avoid failed trials and lost hours.
Ethyl(2-methoxyethyl)dimethylammonium bis(fluorosulfonyl)imide stands out in the movement to replace hazardous, flammable electrolytes and aggressive solvents in labs and factories. Its success depends on how responsibly handlers store, transport, and use the material. That means routine risks assessments, engineering controls, reliable PPE, and environmental management systems. Research groups and industries can push for greener routes—optimizing synthetic yield, reducing waste, capturing and reusing byproducts—so impact shrinks as use scales up. No chemical comes risk-free or care-free; the key lies in collective commitment, transparent information, and honest discussion about gains, trade-offs, and the push toward safer materials for advanced technologies.
