1-Benzyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride
[CAS# 36443-80-8]

Identification

• Classification: Organic raw materials >> Heterocyclic compound >> Imidazoles
• Name: 1-Benzyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride
• Molecular Formula: C₁₁H₁₃ClN₂
• Molecular Weight: 208.69
• CAS Registry Number: 36443-80-8
• EC Number: 628-997-3
• SMILES: C[N+]1=CN(C=C1)CC2=CC=CC=C2.[Cl-]

Safety Data

• Hazard Symbols: GHS07 Warning
• Risk Statements: H315-H319-H335
• Safety Statements: P261-P264-P264+P265-P271-P280-P302+P352-P304+P340-P305+P351+P338-P319-P321-P332+P317-P337+P317-P362+P364-P403+P233-P405-P501

Hazard Classification

Hazard	Class	Category Code	Hazard Statement
Skin irritation	Skin Irrit.	2	H315
Eye irritation	Eye Irrit.	2	H319
Specific target organ toxicity - single exposure	STOT SE	3	H335

Discovery and Applications

1-Benzyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride is an ionic liquid that has attracted much attention due to its unique properties and wide range of applications in various scientific and industrial fields. As a member of the imidazolium-based ionic liquid family, this compound is known for its thermal stability, low volatility, and high ionic conductivity, making it a valuable substance in numerous applications.

The development of ionic liquids, including 1-benzyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride, dates back to the mid-20th century. However, the growing demand for environmentally friendly alternatives to traditional solvents drove major advances in the 1990s. Researchers synthesized this ionic liquid by combining benzyl chloride with 1-methylimidazole, resulting in a compound with remarkable chemical stability and low environmental impact.

1-Benzyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride, with the chemical formula C11H13ClN2 and a molecular weight of 208.69 g/mol, has excellent thermal and chemical stability. Its ionic nature provides high ionic conductivity, which is beneficial for various electrochemical applications. The low volatility of this compound and its ability to dissolve a wide range of substances make it an excellent solvent in both laboratory and industrial settings.

1-Benzyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride is used as a solvent in organic reactions, providing a non-volatile and recyclable medium that complies with the principles of green chemistry. Its ability to dissolve organic and inorganic compounds improves reaction rates and yields. This ionic liquid is an effective medium for catalytic reactions, especially in homogeneous catalysis. Its ionic properties stabilize reaction intermediates and transition states, thereby improving the efficiency and selectivity of the catalytic process.

The high ionic conductivity and thermal stability of 1-Benzyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride make it suitable for use as an electrolyte in batteries and supercapacitors. It helps improve the efficiency, safety, and lifespan of these energy storage devices. The compound is used in electrochemical sensors due to its excellent solubility and stability, improving the sensitivity and accuracy of these devices.

Incorporating 1-Benzyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride into polymer electrolytes produces materials with high ionic conductivity and mechanical strength. These materials are valuable in applications such as fuel cells and advanced batteries. This ionic liquid is able to stabilize nanoparticles and promote their uniform distribution, which is very beneficial for the synthesis and processing of nanomaterials. These nanomaterials can be used in catalysis, electronics, and medicine.

1-Benzyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride is used in extraction processes to separate specific compounds from complex mixtures. Its selectivity and efficiency in dissolving target molecules improves the purity and yield of the extracted substances, which can be used in pharmaceuticals and fine chemicals. The solubility of this ionic liquid can be used to separate gases such as carbon dioxide and hydrogen from gas mixtures. This application is of great significance in industrial processes and environmental management.

1-Benzyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride has high thermal stability and is suitable for use as a heat transfer fluid in high-temperature applications. Its non-volatility reduces the risk of evaporation and environmental contamination.

Future research on 1-Benzyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride aims to further explore its potential in sustainable technologies, advanced materials, and biopolymer processing. Ongoing research focuses on optimizing its synthesis, enhancing its properties, and expanding its applications in various industries.

References

2016. Imidazolium Ionic Liquids in Catalysis. Green Chemistry, 18(20).
DOI: 10.1039/C6GC01567A