N-Butyl-3-Methylpyridinium Bis(Trifluoromethylsulfonyl)Imide, commonly referenced by its molecular composition, stands out in the chemical world for its unique ionic liquid properties. This compound, bearing the molecular formula C13H21F6N3O4S2, features a pairing of a pyridinium-based cation and a heavily fluorinated imide anion. Its structure positions it among a growing class of raw materials considered valuable both in academic research and in specialized industrial applications. Recognized by the HS Code 2933399990, suppliers and manufacturers routinely track its shipments due to regulatory requirements, a practice that has grown more prevalent as safety and environmental impact draw greater scrutiny.
The distinctiveness of N-Butyl-3-Methylpyridinium Bis(Trifluoromethylsulfonyl)Imide comes down to its physical and chemical properties: this material appears as a colorless to pale yellow solid at room temperature, sometimes encountered as flakes, powder, crystalline pearls, and even as a high-viscosity liquid under certain conditions. What sets it apart from more conventional organic compounds is its remarkable thermal stability, wide electrochemical window, and exceptional chemical inertness toward water and many organic solvents. The density typically falls near 1.42 g/cm³, allowing for precise measurement and formulation in laboratory and production settings. From a glass flask in the lab to kilogram drums on the plant floor, I have seen this substance handled in many forms, always requiring clear respect for the differences each form entails. Years ago, the transition from low-weight powders to high-density melts taught me to appreciate the subtle ways density can shape mixing, handling, and accidental spill risks.
N-Butyl-3-Methylpyridinium Bis(Trifluoromethylsulfonyl)Imide remains available in several material forms: as a fine crystalline powder, solid flakes, round pearls for dosing, and as a solution well-suited for advanced electrochemistry or separation science. Crystals tend to clump if exposed to air, so manufacturers typically advise storing away from moisture and direct sunlight. Some labs dissolve the solid in organic or aqueous media, producing a clear, homogenous solution—its solubility profile ranks among the notable benefits, reducing the headache of useless residue at the bottom of flasks. On the production side, shipping and handling protocols emphasize packaging integrity, since product spoilage can creep in fast through even minor breaches. In one project, overlooked air leaks led to expensive waste, underscoring how oversight in bulk storage hits bottom lines.
Every chemical brings its own set of risks and obligations, and N-Butyl-3-Methylpyridinium Bis(Trifluoromethylsulfonyl)Imide deserves particular attention here. Safety data point to mild to moderate hazardous and harmful potential: inhalation of dust or direct skin exposure can cause irritation. The heavy fluorine content means accidental releases or spills demand quick, knowledgeable response to prevent both environmental and personal harm. In personal experience, wearing nitrile gloves plus protective goggles never feels optional—once, a minor splash burned through thin latex gloves, leaving a reddened patch that reminded me not to take shortcuts. Proper labeling, clear instructions for first aid, and accessible spill kits reduce harm and keep teams confident and focused, not fearful.
Researchers and industry professionals alike pull value from N-Butyl-3-Methylpyridinium Bis(Trifluoromethylsulfonyl)Imide due to its rare blend of low volatility, high ionic conductivity, and broad thermal stability. Electrolyte solutions for advanced batteries—especially in the race for safer lithium-ion alternatives—often rely on these ionic liquids to suppress fire risks and expand temperature ranges. Its performance in separation sciences, chromatography, and catalysis unlocks new experimental ground, sometimes yielding results that can’t be reached by more conventional solvents. Raw material choice has ripple effects downstream; safer, more stable chemicals help reduce workplace exposure incidents, lower equipment wear from corrosion, and ease the compliance headaches tied to toxic or persistent pollutants. As the market shifts toward sustainable practices, every molecule that manages to balance utility with health and safety advantages sends a message—responsible science and industry both matter, starting even with the choice of raw materials in the lab.
