Tuesday, April 20, 2010
LL Conference Facility (Hilton Clearwater Beach)
We have investigated the effect of the ionic liquid anion on the dissolution of pine wood (Pinus radiata) in ionic liquids. Using a protocol for assessing the size change of wood blocks (10 x 10 x 5 mm) it was shown that the anion has a profound impact on the ability to promote both swelling and dissolution of wood chips. Time course studies showed that viscosity, temperature and water content are important parameters influencing the dissolution process. Measurement of the Kamlet-Taft solvent polarity of the ionic liquids revealed that the anion basicity, described by the ß parameter, correlates with the ability to expand and dissolve pine wood.