Ionic Liquids

The unique physical properties exhibited by ionic liquids (ILs) — such as liquid ranges below 100ºC, negligible vapor pressures, and complex solvation properties towards various organic and inorganic compounds — are a result of their underlying molecular nature. This nature involves an intricate balance between electrostatic, dispersion, and specific H-bond-like interactions, leading to the formation of structural heterogeneities at a nanoscopic level (polar networks and non-polar domains) [1-3]. Furthermore, when these substances are mixed with other solvents (e.g., water and alcohols), the interactions between the molecules and the ILs significantly impact the physical properties of the mixtures, such as their miscibility window [4-6]. Consequently, I am currently interested in studying the evolution of IL structures as they transition from pure ionic liquids to mixtures with neutral molecular species and other salts.