Ionic liquids (ILs) containing aryl sulfonium cations have been proposed as thermally robust solvents, lubricants, and thermal energy storing materials. Because aryl sulfonium salts display an increased long-term thermal stability, these ILs have been considered for use in high temperature conditions. However, the synthesis of these ILs often results in a product contaminated by starting materials. Contamination often results in an adhesive, amorphous product at room temperature and ambient pressure. This amorphous product is difficult to handle and poses a challenge for further synthesis steps or even transfer or measurement. Physical properties, such as melting points near room temperature and an amphiphilic nature that results in increased solubility in both aqueous and organic solutions, can lead to challenging purification. The work presented here includes the identification and analysis of various contaminants resulting from the synthesis. Additionally, purification methods that result in increased product yield and purity have been developed and presented here.

Purification methods for aryl sulfonium ionic liquids

ACS Fall 2021

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