Tributylhexylphosphonium Bis((Trifluoromethyl)Sulfonyl)Imide stands out as an advanced ionic liquid recognized for both its physical and chemical resilience. Chemists and industries label it under the HS Code 2920909090, slotting the compound among organic phosphorous derivatives. With a molecular formula of C22H44F6NO4P S2 and a molecular weight tipping the scale at about 620.7 g/mol, its structure features a phosphonium cation bonded to three butyl groups and a hexyl group, paired with a bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide anion. This arrangement supports exceptional stability, broad solubility in organic solvents, and steady physical behavior across a wide temperature window. The expectation in laboratory and industrial environments includes either a clear, colorless to pale yellow viscous liquid or solid crystals at room temperature. Attention to appearance matters, and you might come across it as a powder, flakes, pearls, or a dense oily liquid—these forms adapt to the handling and applications in various material processes.
One thing worth noting is density. Tributylhexylphosphonium Bis((Trifluoromethyl)Sulfonyl)Imide sits at about 1.19–1.21 g/mL at 25°C, indicating a substance more substantial than standard water-based solutions. Boiling does not come up in everyday practice with this material—heat resilience extends well beyond typical laboratory processes, holding up under thermal stress without rapid decomposition. It remains non-volatile and hydrophobic, showing little to no mixing with water, which is crucial for separation techniques, catalysis, and solvent systems where water activity needs to stay low. Chemists value it for its broad liquid range, high chemical inertness, and impressive electrochemical windows. Those diving into synthesis or extraction work often prefer it for its resistance to acids and bases, meaning it won’t easily break down or form unwanted byproducts in harsh reactions.
Specifications highlight purity standards, generally above 98%, alongside physical form, color, density, and melting range. Lab settings order it in bottles by mass or volume—ranging from 100 grams up to several liters—depending on the research or production need. The industry finds value in this ionic liquid in areas like catalysis, organic synthesis, electrochemistry, lubricants, separation processes, polymerization, and advanced battery technology. Both research scientists and commercial users appreciate a compound that supports safe, robust operation, so packaging must shield it from light and moisture to ensure a long shelf life. The adaptability extends to mixing with other solvents or using it directly as a reaction medium. Whether it arrives as pearls, solid flakes, or an oily liquid, care during weighing and transfer curbs spills and cross-contamination, crucial steps for clean lab work and process control.
Manufacturers rely on specialty chemicals to build tributylhexylphosphonium cations and the bis(trifluoromethyl) sulfonylimide anion. The raw materials stem from organic phosphines and advanced organosulfur sources, each handled in controlled environments to avoid impurity buildup. Several steps, including alkylation, quaternization, counterion exchange, and thorough purification, combine to produce a substance tailored for the next generation of materials science. Those working with chemical solutions expect all steps to stay transparent, with attention to trace-level impurity control and environmental safety.
Anyone tasked with handling this chemical focuses on safety and compliance. Although it shows a degree of chemical stability uncommon among many other industrial reagents, exposure can irritate the skin and eyes. The manufacturer’s safety data sheet warns handlers to use gloves, protective eyewear, and strong local ventilation, especially during transfer or mixing in bulk. Inhalation of dust or spray mist ought to be avoided. Disposal policies follow regional chemical waste rules, and any spills call for prompt cleanup using absorbent material followed by secure disposal in chemical waste containers—minimizing risk both for lab workers and the environment. Hazardous decomposition does not typically arise unless the material undergoes intense heating or contacts incompatible substances; then, corrosive gases may result. Classified as a hazardous chemical due to its persistence and potential aquatic toxicity, the industry faces pressure to manage life-cycle impacts, including wastewater treatment to prevent release into waterways.
My background in chemistry and industrial research shows just how much high-performing ionic liquids like this one shape innovation. Take the switch from traditional volatiles in battery electrolytes to ionic liquids—suddenly, there’s less fire risk and greater thermal stability. Pharmaceutical processes and electroplating rely on this substance for non-aqueous solvent tasks where water presence might weaken yields or cause unwanted reactions. With pushback on hazardous raw materials and environmental harm, safety data and eco-profile move from the back seat to the main dashboard. Companies switching to less volatile, more chemically inert materials signal a desire for technologies that balance process safety with lower environmental hazard.
