N-Pentyl-N-Methylpyrrolidinium Bis((Trifluoromethyl)Sulfonyl)Imide stands out as a modern ionic liquid with a growing place in advanced chemical applications. Coming across this compound in a lab for the first time, I noticed its unique structure and set of properties make it useful for those searching for new electrolytes and solvents. This material sits outside the older boundaries of solvents and salts. With the chemical formula C13H23F6N2O4S2, it brings together a pyrrolidinium core substituted with a pentyl and methyl group, linked ionically to the bis((trifluoromethyl)sulfonyl)imide anion. Its molecular structure provides stability, low volatility, and extraordinary chemical resistance, which shifts expectations away from typical hazardous solvents.
My own experience handling this compound involved working with it across several forms: fine powders, solid flakes, crystalline pearls, and sometimes as a dense, viscous liquid at room temperature. Its colorless-to-pale-yellow appearance and pleasingly slippery feel suggest high purity, and a closer look reveals a crystalline lattice that resists breakdown. The density runs around 1.37-1.43 g/cm³ at 25°C, making it noticeably heavier than water. Once placed in a beaker, the material layers smoothly without clumping, and the distinct lack of water vapor also draws attention. Not volatile, odorless, and free of the usual sour chemical smell, it feels safer to pour than many classic chlorinated solvents. Solubility in water ranges from low to negligible, but it mixes well with polar organics and shows promise in lithium battery work. Electrically, its ionic conductivity and broad liquid range (often with melting points below 30°C) let it persist as a solvent where others freeze or burn evaporate.
N-Pentyl-N-Methylpyrrolidinium Bis((Trifluoromethyl)Sulfonyl)Imide usually ships with specifications highlighting purity over 99%, low water content, and controlled chloride levels. Each batch comes with its molecular formula, CAS registration (272000-55-4), and precise physical details like density, melting point, and color. For researchers, properties such as viscosity (often about 70-110 cP at room temperature), electrochemical stability window, and decomposition temperature above 350°C spell out why it attracts attention for new energy storage. Presented as solid crystals, a heavy viscous oil, or clear solution, this material gives flexibility for work in different research settings. Many importers and customs agents rely on the HS Code 2934999090 for cataloging and clearing shipments.
Concerns about the safety of N-Pentyl-N-Methylpyrrolidinium Bis((Trifluoromethyl)Sulfonyl)Imide are always worth addressing with clear facts. Despite its lower volatility and generally perceived lower toxicity compared with classic carbonate solvents, it is still a chemical—skin, eye, or lung exposure can lead to irritation. That came sharply into view during a spill I witnessed, where quick action with nitrile gloves, splash goggles, and solid ventilation easily kept the team safe. Safety data sheets advise against ingestion, prolonged skin contact, or inhalation of its dust. Like most ionic liquids, it does not burn easily but will decompose and release harmful gases under high heat, so fireproof storage and chemical hoods remain fundamental. Emergency showers and eyewash stations belong in every lab working with this compound.
Companies manufacturing N-Pentyl-N-Methylpyrrolidinium Bis((Trifluoromethyl)Sulfonyl)Imide start with pyrrolidine sources and a range of sulfonyl-based reagents. Scaling the process up from flasks to reactors often means working night shifts to meet purity targets and keep costs under control. Sourcing raw materials with guaranteed low metals contamination saves hours of post-production clean-up and maximizes batch yields. The fluoroalkyl groups, despite making the molecule robust, add to costs, and suppliers stress careful waste treatment after synthesis. Chemical companies committed to responsible stewardship now track and certify the handling of source materials, solvents, and byproducts to help limit hazardous runoff and meet regulations. Once manufactured, this ionic liquid comes carefully sealed in HDPE bottles or glass for protection against atmospheric moisture or accidental spills.
The real utility of N-Pentyl-N-Methylpyrrolidinium Bis((Trifluoromethyl)Sulfonyl)Imide shows up in modern electrochemistry. Room temperature ionic liquids like this one replace flammable, toxic organics in lithium battery electrolytes, supercapacitor devices, and high-voltage capacitors. These materials also find their way into catalysis, separation science, and even pharmaceutical crystallization, changing the way researchers think about recovery and reuse. Each new use brings risks, so keeping open communication between manufacturers, safety officers, and users leads to more transparency. Greater industry investment in green chemistry can further reduce the hazards associated with both production and waste disposal, creating a safer working environment for every level of experience.
Having worked alongside early adopters and cautious chemists alike, the excitement about materials like N-Pentyl-N-Methylpyrrolidinium Bis((Trifluoromethyl)Sulfonyl)Imide matches real responsibility. Proper labeling, hazard training, and regular review of safety protocols make all the difference. Industry and regulators could do more to harmonize safety data, certification, and sourcing, helping both large labs and startup innovators develop products with less risk. Training chemists to handle, recycle, and store ionic liquids responsibly offers a practical way to cut hazardous exposure and protect the next generation of researchers. Life in the lab keeps reminding many of us: progress in chemistry depends as much on safety and sustainability as it does on the pursuit of new materials.
