Abstract: An ionic liquid according to the invention is substantially halogen-free, has a low viscosity and is stable to hydrolytic degradation under test conditions. The ionic liquid is a compound of the formula (cation) (R?—O—SO3), (cation) (R?—SO3), or a mixture of the two compounds. It can be used in processes for the chemical conversion and separation of materials by employing the ionic liquid as a solvent, solvent additive, extraction agent or phase-transfer catalyst. It can also be used in a heat exchange device wherein the ionic liquid serves as a heat carrier or heat carrier additive.

Abstract: This invention relates to a process for removing polarizable impurities from hydrocarbons and mixtures of hydrocarbons using ionic liquids as an extraction medium for reducing the degree of contamination of the hydrocarbon or mixture of hydrocarbons to a low or very low level.

Abstract: This invention relates to novel ionic liquids with the general formula [cation] [R′—SO4] in which R′ is a branched or linear, saturated or unsaturated, aliphatic or alicyclic functionalized or non-functionalized hydrocarbon chain with 3-36 carbon atoms. These novel ionic liquids can be used e.g. as solvents or solvent additives in chemical reactions, as extraction agents or as heat carriers.

Abstract: The invention relates to the implementation of enzyme-catalysed reactions in the presence of ionic liquids.

Abstract: The invention relates to chiral ionic liquids of the general formula