| abstract |
The invention relates to a process for the preparation of ionic liquids of general formula (cation)(R′—O—SO 3 ). The process includes the step of treating the compound of formula (cation)(R—O—SO 3 ) with an alcohol, or mixture of different alcohols, of the formula R′—OH optionally in the presence of a catalyst to form the desired ionic liquid and the by-product R—OH, which is optionally removed during the reaction or after completion of the reaction. The compound of formula (cation)(R—O—SO 3 ) can be prepared by alkylating a tertiary or aromatic amine with a dialkylsulfate. |