Antibacterial Activity of Short-Chained 1-Alkyl-3-methylimidazolium Bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl) Imide Ionic Liquids

The antibacterial activity of a series of ionic liquids containing short-chained 1-alkyl-3-methylimidazolium cations ([Cnmim+]; n = 2, 4, 6 and 8) and bis (trifluoromethylsulfonyl) imide anion ([Tf2N]) against E. coli and B. subtilis was measured, for the first time. All ILs used in this work were synthesized and analyzed by Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, NMR, and Karl-Fischer titration. Antimicrobial activity was determined by the tube dilution method. The ILs investigated showed antibacterial activity against E. coli and B