N-Butylimidazolium Trifluoromethanesulfonate, often labeled under the HS Code 2925299090, stands out among ionic liquids because of its unique set of properties. This compound blends the chemical backbone of an imidazolium ion, carrying a butyl side chain, with the triflate anion, which brings impressive thermal stability and excellent solubility in different solvents. It shows up on lab shelves as either a colorless to slightly yellow liquid or a crystalline solid. Most batches keep a density around 1.34 g/cm3. Many users recognize this formula by its molecular composition, C8H15F3N2O3S, and its formula weight at about 292.28 g/mol.
A closer look reveals solid advantages. At room temperature, pure samples can exist as either a viscous liquid or fine crystals, depending on their storage and handling. If kept cool and dry, the compound persists as glittery flakes or powder. In humid or warm environments, it leans more toward a thick, clear liquid or flows as pearls. Such versatility simplifies storage but calls for airtight containers to avoid moisture uptake; ionic liquids love to draw in water from the air.
Structurally, the material builds off an imidazole ring substituted with a butyl group, giving it a handle for organic reactions, catalysis, or electrochemical processes. The trifluoromethanesulfonate anion doesn’t just stabilize the compound—it lowers the melting point and hands over chemical robustness. That’s why this material handles both high temperatures and harsh acids or bases. The combination makes it an underrated asset in green chemistry or as a reaction medium for those pushing for less hazardous solvents.
Industries, especially those working on battery electrolytes, organic synthesis, or advanced chemical separations, put N-Butylimidazolium Trifluoromethanesulfonate to work. My experience in a catalysis lab proved its worth in reducing harsh conditions. Compared to traditional solvents, this ionic liquid cut down evaporation loss and improved yields in alkylation reactions. Battery developers value the high ionic conductivity, which rivals other imidazolium salts and stretches battery cycle life. Powered by its resistance to degradation, the material finds use in resins, membranes, and specialty coatings.
Supplying quality raw materials matters—purity levels above 99% safeguard against side reactions in sensitive chemical syntheses. Every shipment includes assay reports, confirming the absence of pesky water or unwanted ions, making it reliable for scale-up or production runs. Scientists love to see its adaptable form factor, whether powder, flakes, or larger pearls, as packing and dosing get easier on high-throughput lines.
Product datasheets usually note the following: density at 20°C (~1.34 g/cm3), appearance (from transparent solid to oily liquid), and melting point (often 30–35°C but may shift with impurity content). Material solubility runs wide, crossing organic and some aqueous domains, raising possibilities but calling for respect for chemical compatibility.
Safety always comes into play in chemical handling. Direct skin or eye contact may irritate; personal experience reminds me gloves and goggles are not optional. Hazard statements warn of possible harmful effects via ingestion or prolonged inhalation of vapors, though outright acute toxicity lands far below that of many classic organic solvents. Good ventilation, spill control materials, and access to Material Safety Data Sheets steer safe use. Disposing of spent reagents includes containment in labeled vessels, not down the drain, owing to both ionic content and persistent anions.
N-Butylimidazolium Trifluoromethanesulfonate presents more than just chemical theory; it provides real-world improvements in laboratory safety, efficiency, and sustainability. Chemists looking for new ways to reduce reliance on volatile organics see it as a problem-solver, cutting risks associated with flammable or highly toxic solvents. Academic literature documents its use in carbon capture, biomass processing, and fine chemical manufacture. Its compatibility with biopolymers and catalytic metals opens fresh ground for eco-friendly process design.
Markets watch for product innovation and regulatory shifts—high purity, batch consistency, and transparent hazard labeling satisfy both quality heads and safety officers. If more supply chains adopt rigorous incoming testing, fewer surprises land on the production floor. Transparent updates in safety datasheets and responsible messaging about potential risks—especially for those outside chemistry—help steer adoption by broader sectors, from energy to environmental technology.
