Sulfonic group functionalized task specific ionic liquid as catalyst for Biginelli reaction in water and Co 2+ /Ni 2+ separation from their aqueous mixture

A new hydrophobic ionic liquid 1,3-dihexylimidazolium-5-sulfosalicylate [DHIm] + [5-SSA]− was synthesized and characterized. The sulfonic-functionalized IL was effectively employed in the Biginelli reaction under ultrasound irradiation. The [DHIm] + [5-SSA]− demonstrated efficient catalytic performance yielding up to 83% product. Additionally, the application of [DHIm] + [5-SSA]− in selective extraction of Co2+ and Ni2+ from their aqueous mixture has been successfully carried out. High extraction efficiency was observed for Co2+.