N-Hexyl-N-Methylpiperidinium Bis((Trifluoromethyl)Sulfonyl)Imide stands out as a specialized ionic liquid in chemical research, energy storage, electronics, and other technical fields. It springs from a class of compounds known for their unusual mix of organic and inorganic traits. The core of this material is a piperidinium ring, carrying a methyl group and a hexyl group, tied to a large and stable bis((trifluoromethyl)sulfonyl)imide anion. Together, these give it a unique balance of hydrophobic (water-repelling) and hydrophilic (water-attracting) properties, making it suitable for jobs few other chemicals handle as well.
Looking at its chemical formula, C13H25F6N2O4S2, it offers a glimpse into the blend of long alkyl chains and powerful electron-withdrawing trifluoromethyl-sulfonyl groups. The molecular weight sits around 464 g/mol. Its structure shows a flexible but robust organic backbone, kept stable by the large anion that resists breaking down under tough thermal or electrochemical conditions. This compound’s structure opens up exciting use in novel battery electrolytes, organic synthesis, and high-performance industrial processes. A property worth noting is its density, generally falling in the 1.3 to 1.4 g/cm³ range at room temperature. This heavyweight nature, rare for organic molecules, comes from those sulfur and fluorine atoms loaded into its matrix. Whether the compound turns up as flakes, powder, small pearls, or a glossy solid, it usually looks clear to slightly off-white.
Experiencing this material in a lab brings a sense of confidence. Pour out the white to pale yellow powder, and you notice it doesn’t roll around like table salt or baking soda. It clings gently, hinting at a slightly sticky, ionic nature. The solid form sits still on a glass plate; try rubbing some between the fingers (wearing gloves, as always), and you sense a mild oiliness, a bit like very fine talc mixed with light mineral oil. In some applications, workers dissolve it into clear, viscous ionic solutions. Melting points hover near 70°C, and it stays thermally stable up to well over 300°C, resisting breakdown or discoloration in many heating scenarios. Its solubility profile lands between water-averse and moderately miscible in organic solvents such as acetonitrile, propylene carbonate, and dimethyl sulfoxide, a rare feature that opens the door for advanced separation techniques or electrochemical applications.
Users can find N-Hexyl-N-Methylpiperidinium Bis((Trifluoromethyl)Sulfonyl)Imide supplied in tightly sealed bottles or bags, often appearing as dry flakes, crystalline powder, or occasionally as free-flowing pearls. The shape and consistency rest on purification and drying during manufacture, but in all forms, it resists lumping and keeps well under sealed, moisture-free storage. In a pinch, a researcher can dissolve it into a measured liter of solvent, developing a transparent solution suited for conductivity studies, catalyst prep, or electroplating baths. In battery research, precise weighing and careful transfer are a must, since the powder floats and disperses with ease. The material rarely gives off strong odors, and handling in a well-ventilated fume hood addresses any overlooked dust.
Reliable supply hinges on clear specifications: purity above 98%, moisture content below 0.2%, and minimal trace metals. Chemists value a tight parameter here, since impurities—or water—hurt performance in batteries or delicate organic synthesis. Packing labels carry hazard warnings, as the chemical world recognizes the risks: N-Hexyl-N-Methylpiperidinium Bis((Trifluoromethyl)Sulfonyl)Imide poses some threat if swallowed or inhaled, and like many ionic liquids, it can irritate skin or eyes. Contact doesn’t lead to sudden symptoms, but safety glasses, nitrile gloves, and good ventilation keep exposure nil. Most studies rate it as ‘harmful’ rather than outright toxic — one step below acutely dangerous. Chemical hygiene in the lab means cleaning up spills with paper towels and proper solvent, then sealing them in a closed bag for waste pickup. I’ve experienced a little discomfort after cleaning spills with bare hands; it is always best to slip on gloves.
Trade in this chemical uses the HS Code 2921.19, which groups it among other saturated heterocyclic amines. This code is familiar to chemical supply companies and border agents, smoothing its path between producers and buyers. The raw materials feeding the synthesis line include 1-methylpiperidine, 1-bromohexane, lithium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide, and various salt-bonding solvents. The steps to make it don’t look out of reach for a trained chemist, but industrial production uses closed reactors, dryers, and powerful filtration systems to keep workers and the environment safe. Every producer faces the question of responsible disposal, since ionic liquids, while less volatile than many solvents, don’t always break down quickly in nature. Most labs collect and incinerate used samples, while factory-scale users send drummed waste to licensed handlers.
Walking into a research lab, the container of N-Hexyl-N-Methylpiperidinium Bis((Trifluoromethyl)Sulfonyl)Imide signals projects that touch the edge of modern electrochemistry, green solvent development, and advanced energy devices. As a supporting electrolyte in lithium battery prototypes, it brings stability where regular salts fall short. For organic chemists, it delivers a platform for unusual reactions, especially where traditional solvents break down or slow the game. The low vapor pressure and wide liquid range make it a favorite as a non-volatile solvent. Over the last decade, I’ve seen teams get longer cycle life and better charge retention in their battery cells after swapping in this salt. Manufacturers also explore its talent as a heat-transfer fluid in specialty reactors, since it barely evaporates and shrugs off large swings in temperature. Some research points to uses in carbon capture or catalysis, though most applications still wait for real-world scaling.
Storing this material in climate-controlled cabinets with desiccators helps it last, as humidity can worm its way into the powder, clumping and spoiling its best properties. Solvents used for cleanup or sample prep often get recycled on-site if purity allows. Responsible users look beyond the immediate job, treating waste by high-temperature incineration where biodegradable alternatives don’t exist. Large stockpiles bring questions about long-term storage and environmental duty, even if the risk to air quality is low. Over a decade working with lab chemicals, safe handling policies—like proper labeling, separating incompatibles, and monthly inventory checks—cut down on accidents and improve workplace health. Researchers stay ahead by keeping training fresh and reading up on newer best practices.
