N-Butylsulfonate Pyridinium Hydrogensulfate belongs to a class of ionic liquids and specialized salts, often used in the development of green chemistry processes and advanced materials labs. The compound carries the molecular formula C9H17NO5S2, made from a pyridinium cation linked to a hydrogensulfate anion, with a butylsulfonate group adding functional diversity. This highly polar substance stands out for its performance in solvent systems, catalysis, and electrochemistry, with raw materials often sourced from established chemical supply networks. The HS Code for international trade purposes usually falls in the 293499—other heterocyclic compounds—with customs authorities seeking details around raw sources, specification sheets, and safety protocols prior to shipment or use.
Structurally, the molecule features a positively charged pyridinium ring, with a butylsulfonate chain attached at the nitrogen, and a hydrogensulfate moiety balancing the charge. At room temperature, the pigment varies. Solid forms appear as either off-white to pale yellow flakes, powder, or crystalline material, produced through solvent extraction and drying steps which minimize moisture content. Solution states, in polar organics or water, exhibit high viscosity and can transition into a syrupy liquid or a clear, mobile phase. Crystal size and appearance shift depending on cooling rates during synthesis—sometimes forming needle-like structures, sometimes coarse granules resembling pearls. Checking visually and physically for these forms helps avoid confusion in busy laboratory settings because improper identity can mean failed reaction or a hazardous mix.
This compound’s density varies from 1.22 to 1.26 g/cm3, measured for the anhydrous solid form and slightly lower as a dilute solution. The substance resists evaporation due to low volatility, an asset in closed reaction systems or processes sensitive to air-borne contamination. It melts in the range of 50°C to 80°C, marking an advantage over traditional salts that decompose or char at similar temperatures. Water solubility runs high, and mixing with polar organic solvents expands its potential as a reaction medium, which can cut waste and improve yields in industrial processes. Thermal stability under moderate heat encourages multi-stage synthesis pipelines, though care must be taken to avoid overheating and decomposition which would release sulfur oxides. Acidic properties of the hydrogensulfate ion add complexity to reactions, helping catalyze transesterification, alkylation, and related schemes where traditional acids falter or corrode.
Manufacturers publish detailed specification sheets listing assay (usually >98% by titration or NMR), moisture content (<0.5%), and key impurity thresholds. Bulk and lab packaging range from 25 kg fiber drums for dry flakes to 1-liter amber glass for solution. Ensuring consistent density, granule size, and dissolution rate matters for scale-up and reproducibility, particularly for those who remember the mess of a misweighed batch or uncontrolled exotherm in school or industry. Production employs multiple checks, including FTIR, HPLC, and combustion elemental analysis, to guarantee batch traceability back to original feedstocks.
Direct exposure to N-Butylsulfonate Pyridinium Hydrogensulfate can pose chemical hazards. It acts as an irritant to skin, eyes, and mucous membranes, due to both acidic hydrogensulfate and sulfonate functionalities. In powder and crystal form, accidental inhalation leads to respiratory discomfort; liquid or dissolved forms risk quick absorption through skin. The material rates as hazardous under major chemical legislation, including GHS and REACH, requiring clear chemical labeling and safety data sheets. Well-designed facilities use local exhaust ventilation, chemical splash goggles, nitrile gloves, and spill trays during handling. In case of accident, large amounts of water serve for first-aid decontamination, and all waste requires neutralization before disposal, as untreated runoff affects aquatic systems by acidifying water bodies. Emergency protocols should keep calcium carbonate or sodium bicarbonate on hand for neutralizing small spills.
N-Butylsulfonate Pyridinium Hydrogensulfate plays a distinct role in pushing forward more sustainable chemical processes. Engineers utilize it for creating novel electrolytes in batteries, catalysts in organic transformations, and solvents for difficult separation tasks. The drive for greener, less hazardous chemistries continually pushes research towards low-waste and high-yield alternatives, and ionic salts such as this answer the call in more settings than ever before. Improvements in bulk production, better waste handling, and worker training will minimize risk and advance sustainability. Open reporting of mishaps, careful risk analysis, and on-site monitoring using pH meters and gas detectors end up saving both cost and health. Encouraging chemists and process engineers to share lessons—whether about minor incidents, purity problems, or safe disposal—raises standards across labs and industries that depend on unique materials like N-Butylsulfonate Pyridinium Hydrogensulfate.
