N-Butylpyridinium trifluoromethanesulfonate stands out in the world of ionic liquids. This compound comes from the family of pyridinium-based salts paired with a powerful trifluoromethanesulfonate anion. For those dealing with advanced chemical synthesis or specialized solvent applications, this material delivers a unique combination of stability and versatility. Chemists and industry professionals often recognize it under trade and catalogue names, with its identity firmly established by its chemical structure and physical characteristics.
The molecular formula of N-Butylpyridinium trifluoromethanesulfonate is C10H16F3NO3S. Its structure features a pyridinium core substituted with a butyl group, sharing space with the highly electronegative and stable trifluoromethanesulfonate anion. This design ensures a blend of hydrophobic and hydrophilic characteristics, offering compatibility with a wide range of solvents and reactants. In laboratory work, such structure usually translates into unique solvation properties, often sought after in catalysis or electrochemistry.
This salt typically appears as a solid, either in flakes, crystalline powders, or granular pearls. Sometimes, it gets prepared into a solution or is offered as a ready-to-use liquid in research labs. N-Butylpyridinium trifluoromethanesulfonate shows a density close to 1.3–1.4 g/cm³ depending on purity and water content. For storage and handling, this compound stays non-volatile compared to traditional solvents, cutting back on losses and lowering exposure risks. No notable odor escapes during typical use, which is a relief for anyone used to chemical smells. Its melting point ranges between 70°C and 90°C, making it manageable at room temperature but stable during cycles of moderate heating. These physical and chemical details suggest reliability and predictability in repeated processes, which matters more than most specs lists let on.
In international trade, N-Butylpyridinium trifluoromethanesulfonate finds its place under the HS Code 2934990000, sitting among other organic compounds and specialty chemicals. Its manufacture typically involves pyridine derivatives and sulfonic acid-based reagents. Tracing back this supply chain gives buyers a practical edge in assessing quality and compliance — high-purity routes using refined raw materials result in cleaner, more consistent product delivery. This matters for anyone looking to scale up bench chemistry to pilot or production scales, where inconsistent batches quickly add up to wasted time and materials.
Across chemical synthesis, electrochemistry, and even battery research, this ionic liquid finds its way into a range of advanced applications. Its resistance to hydrolysis and oxidation appeal to those pushing the limits in green chemistry. Choosing an efficient, thermally stable liquid means less risk of runaway reactions, fewer glitches when scaling up, and more room to innovate. In my own experience with ionic liquid research, the straightforward handling — from weighing and dissolving, to measuring and recycling — has sidestepped plenty of headaches that pop up with more volatile or less stable salts.
N-Butylpyridinium trifluoromethanesulfonate ranks as a low-volatility chemical. Standard handling protocols still apply: avoid ingestion, inhalation, prolonged skin contact. While some studies cite minimal toxicity, careful disposal remains crucial. Waste collection and treatment facilities already know how to break down organofluorine and pyridinium derivatives, but no one wants these compounds building up in groundwater. In any setting — academic labs, tech startups, industrial floors — it pays to keep personal protective equipment and spill kits close at hand. Training users to identify hazards, store the material away from acids and oxidizers, and monitor storage conditions pays off in long-term health and regulatory compliance.
This salt may cause irritation to eyes and skin, and inhalation of its dust should be avoided. Even though large-scale acute toxicity is low compared to some other ionic liquids, chronic exposure remains a concern. For chemical handlers, recognizing the material as potentially hazardous, especially in the context of improper storage, keeps unnecessary risks at bay. All safety data sheets recommend good mechanical ventilation and strict hygiene practices. It helps to keep its solid form carefully contained, as dust can travel farther in busy workspaces. In case of accidental release, thorough cleanup with adequate PPE limits risk for everyone involved.
Looking ahead, the biggest improvement for N-Butylpyridinium trifluoromethanesulfonate centers on responsible waste management and recycling strategies. Many researchers now favor closed-loop processes, where recovery and reuse extend the lifecycle of high-value ionic liquids. Some companies have even piloted take-back programs for spent salts, reducing the burden on municipal waste systems. Quality testing at every step — from incoming raw materials to finished goods — means fewer off-spec lots end up in landfills. Educating users about these practices helps build a culture of safer, more responsible chemical stewardship, supporting labs, factories, and broader communities alike.
