N-Hexylimidazolium Trifluoromethanesulfonate is an ionic liquid that stands out due to its useful combination of an imidazolium cation and a trifluoromethanesulfonate anion. This compound carries the molecular formula C10H19F3N2O3S and falls under the HS Code for organic chemicals, particularly for specialty chemicals deployed across electrochemistry, advanced synthesis, and materials science. Experience working in occasional research labs shows that this class of salts delivers remarkable thermal stability and low vapor pressure, which makes them much safer and less volatile than several organic solvents traditionally on the market.
The backbone of N-Hexylimidazolium Trifluoromethanesulfonate comes from its six-carbon hexyl tail attached to an imidazolium ring, lending it hydrophobic characteristics. The triflate anion adds strong ionic character and chemical resistance, known in the chemist’s circle for making the salt resilient in difficult synthesis conditions. Density sits at around 1.2 g/cm³, with measured melting points reflecting its solid form above room temperature—often appearing as white or off-white flakes, crystalline powders, or pearl-like granules, depending on how it's processed. Under certain circumstances, this chemical also comes in a viscous liquid state, especially when slightly warmed or mixed into compatible solvents, forming clear, stable solutions used for electrochemical applications and as raw material in pilot plants.
Bulk supply usually involves product grades with a purity exceeding 98%, suitable for most industry and research uses. In practice, synthetic chemists look for presentation as fine powder, crystalline flakes, or even small pearls for ease in handling and metering into reaction vessels. Across liter-scale processes, the solid dissolves rapidly in polar solvents such as water, acetonitrile, or certain alcohols, making it useful as an electrolyte for batteries or capacitors. Large quantity purchases often require material safety data and reliable batch-to-batch consistency, something that top-tier manufacturers prioritize, especially for sectors demanding high quality and reproducibility. I have seen cases where improper storage conditions—excess moisture or prolonged open exposure—degrades product quality, so standard practice calls for airtight containers, kept away from strong acids or bases.
Chemical safety needs special attention with N-Hexylimidazolium Trifluoromethanesulfonate. This compound, though less hazardous than some industrial chemicals, still requires standard laboratory PPE and ventilation. Risk mainly arises through dust inhalation or accidental ingestion. Toxicologic data remain limited, but best practices include gloves, goggles, and careful weighing—no different from typical lab routines. Disposal routes depend on local regulation but often pass through approved chemical waste channels since the triflate anion can persist in the environment. Real-world lab experience shows spills are often easy to clean if corralled quickly before it deliquesces in humid air, and small crystals or powders vacuum up cleanly with HEPA-filtered traps. Harmful vapor risk ranks low thanks to the compound’s low volatility. For new industrial users, safety data sheets provided by reputable suppliers give a clear outline of first aid, reactivity, and emergency response procedures.
N-Hexylimidazolium Trifluoromethanesulfonate is widely used as a raw material for specialty electrolytes, coupling reagents, catalysis, and supporting lab-scale reactions that demand both chemical inertness and ionic conductivity. Electrochemical researchers reach for it when standard salts fail to deliver stable voltage windows or reasonable ionic mobility. The imidazolium backbone also serves as a platform to create tailored ionic liquids, custom-fitting solvent properties without being flammable or highly toxic. In my view, this kind of flexibility matters most as new battery chemistries and greener processes look to cut risks associated with outdated, hazardous solvents. Academic studies published over the last decade consistently highlight triflate-based ionic liquids for their reduced environmental footprint and straightforward recovery after use, something industry regulators increasingly prioritize over legacy technologies. For any researcher planning new work with N-Hexylimidazolium Trifluoromethanesulfonate, it pays to track updates in safety recommendations and industrial supply chains, as global regulatory landscapes keep evolving to reflect both health and climate priorities.
