The amphiphilic nanostructure of ionic liquids affects the dehydration of alcohols

Abstract

The effect of the amphiphilic nanostructure of ionic liquids on the dehydration of secondary alcohols to alkenes has been investigated. The influence of these nanostructures was inverted when an acid catalyst was added to the reaction. This phenomenon was ascribed to a balance between ion–solute interactions and the formation of solute–catalyst hydrogen bonds, highlighting the complex interplay between interactions and reaction outcomes in these nanostructured solvent systems.