Synthesis
164 g (2 mol) of N-methylimidazolium chloride was dissolved in 500 ml of toluene in a 1 L flask. The mixture was heated to 90 °C and stirred. Then, under argon protection, 153 g (2 mol) of allyl chloride was added dropwise, and the mixture was left to stand overnight. The reaction was monitored on a TLC plate. Once the N-methylimidazolium chloride had completely reacted, forming a large, polar spot that did not rise significantly, the reaction was stopped.
The reaction solution was evaporated to dryness using a water pump at 60°C, and then pulled dry using an oil pump at 60°C, ultimately yielding 315g of the compound 1-allyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride.
Uses
1-Allyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride is used as an ionic liquid as well as nonderivatizing solvent for cellulose. It acts as a plasticizer for cornstarch and finds application as a solid biopolymer electrolyte. Further, it plays an important role in the preparation of reducing sugar.
