Characterizing Ionic Liquids On the Basis of Multiple Solvation Interactions

TLDR

Room‑temperature ionic liquids are useful in many chemical applications, yet their polarities appear similar while their behavior varies across synthesis, MALDI, extraction, and chromatography. The study aims to characterize 17 RTILs based on their distinct multiple solvation interactions with probe solute molecules using a linear free energy approach. The authors apply a linear free energy model to analyze these solvation interactions. The model shows that most RTILs have similar polarities but distinct behaviors, providing data to identify interactions and properties relevant to specific applications.

Abstract

Room-temperature ionic liquids (RTILs) are useful in many chemical applications. Recent publications have attempted to determine the polarity of RTILs using empirical solvent polarity scales. The results have indicated that most RTILs have similar polarities. Nevertheless, RTILs are capable of behaving quite differently when used as solvents in organic synthesis, matrixes in matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) mass spectrometry, liquid-liquid extraction, and as stationary phases in gas chromatography. The work presented in this study uses a linear free energy approach to characterize 17 RTILs on the basis of their distinct multiple solvation interactions with probe solute molecules. This model provides data that can be used to help identify the interactions and properties that are important for specific chemical applications.