Functionalization of fluorinated ionic liquids: A combined experimental-theoretical study

We present new experimental and modelling data concerning imidazolium based-FILs synthesized with a hydroxyl group in the end of the cationic hydrogenated side chain and compared them with the analogous non-functionalized FILs in order to verify their suitability in the biomedical field. The thermophysical and thermodynamic properties of the neat compounds and the self-aggregation behaviour of FILs in aqueous solutions were measured and compared with theoretical results from the soft-SAFT equation of state, in good agreement with each other. Results showed that the presence of the hydroxyl group increases the density and viscosity of pure compounds and aqueous mixtures, whereas the thermal stability, melting, free volume, ionicity and self-aggregation behaviour decrease. These properties are improved with respect to the conventional perfluorosurfactants for the desired application, due to the full miscibility in water and the promising improved biocompatibility.