| Names | |
|---|---|
| Preferred IUPAC name | lithium 1,1,1-trifluoro-N-oxo-1λ⁶,2-benzodioxathiol-2-imidate |
| Other names | Lithium bis(fluorosulfonyl)azanide LiFSI Lithium fluoro(sulfonyl)imide Lithium bis(fluorosulfonylimide) |
| Pronunciation | /ˈlɪθiəm bɪsˌfluːroʊˌsʌlˌfɒnɪl ɪˈmaɪd/ |
| Identifiers | |
| CAS Number | 171611-11-3 |
| 3D model (JSmol) | `FS(=O)(=O)N1S(=O)(=O)(F)N(Li)1` |
| Beilstein Reference | 3934269 |
| ChEBI | CHEBI:141435 |
| ChEMBL | CHEMBL4296971 |
| ChemSpider | 20568282 |
| DrugBank | DB14516 |
| ECHA InfoCard | 07b19750-abf2-4576-9df6-52909ac2122f |
| EC Number | [80910-49-4] |
| Gmelin Reference | 129239 |
| KEGG | C16197 |
| MeSH | D000077276 |
| PubChem CID | 101366704 |
| RTECS number | NLV0546000 |
| UNII | 38MR5L22IB |
| UN number | UN3536 |
| CompTox Dashboard (EPA) | DTXSID70868877 |
| Properties | |
| Chemical formula | LiFSI |
| Molar mass | 187.07 g/mol |
| Appearance | White to off-white solid |
| Odor | Odorless |
| Density | 1.49 g/cm³ |
| Solubility in water | Soluble |
| log P | -1.3 |
| Vapor pressure | Negligible |
| Acidity (pKa) | -0.60 |
| Basicity (pKb) | 0.5 |
| Magnetic susceptibility (χ) | -36.0e-6 cm³/mol |
| Refractive index (nD) | 1.409 |
| Viscosity | 8.056 mPa·s (20 °C) |
| Dipole moment | 3.03 D |
| Thermochemistry | |
| Std molar entropy (S⦵298) | 191.3 J·mol⁻¹·K⁻¹ |
| Std enthalpy of formation (ΔfH⦵298) | -1195.7 kJ/mol |
| Pharmacology | |
| ATC code | N05AN01 |
| Hazards | |
| Main hazards | Harmful if swallowed, causes severe skin burns and eye damage. |
| GHS labelling | GHS05, GHS07 |
| Pictograms | GHS05,GHS07 |
| Signal word | Danger |
| Hazard statements | H302: Harmful if swallowed. H314: Causes severe skin burns and eye damage. H373: May cause damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure. |
| Precautionary statements | P210, P261, P264, P280, P301+P312, P304+P340, P305+P351+P338, P312, P330, P337+P313, P403+P233, P501 |
| NFPA 704 (fire diamond) | 3-0-2-W |
| Lethal dose or concentration | LD₅₀ (oral, rat): > 2000 mg/kg |
| LD50 (median dose) | LD50 (median dose): >2000 mg/kg (rat, oral) |
| PEL (Permissible) | PEL (Permissible Exposure Limit) for Lithium Bis(fluorosulfonyl)imide: Not established |
| REL (Recommended) | 10 mg/m³ |
| Related compounds | |
| Related compounds | Lithium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide Lithium hexafluorophosphate Lithium tetrafluoroborate Lithium perchlorate Lithium difluoro(oxalato)borate |
| Section | Details |
|---|---|
| Product Name | Lithium Bis(fluorosulfonyl)imide |
| IUPAC Name | Lithium 1,1,2,2-tetrafluoro-2λ6,1λ6-disulfanediide-1,2-diide diimide |
| Chemical Formula | LiFSI / Li[N(SO2F)2] |
| Synonyms & Trade Names |
Lithium bis(fluorosulfonyl)azanide, LiFSI, Lithium N,N-bis(fluorosulfonyl)imide, Lithium (bisfluorosulfonyl)imide |
| HS Code & Customs Classification |
HS Code assignment typically aligns under 2852 or 3824 for lithium compounds, depending on lithium content, grade, and region of import. Importers and manufacturers reference the specific lithium salt categorization, and the product may require end-use and grade disclosure during customs clearance. Border inspection checks commonly request product grade documentation. The exact subheading can shift with evolving customs practice and regulatory developments; manufacturers regularly review harmonization committee updates to channel the product appropriately. |
In industrial production, the selection of raw materials for Lithium Bis(fluorosulfonyl)imide prioritizes source consistency, traceability, and moisture sensitivity. Hydrolytically labile intermediates require controlled low-humidity environments throughout synthesis and packaging. The process route depends on required purity, downstream electrolyte application, and regional safety regulation. For battery grade, rigorous exclusion of metal ion and halide impurities is critical, as their presence can affect electrochemical stability and cell cycle life. Grades targeting electrolytes for high-voltage lithium-ion cells typically demand extra purification steps and more stringent analytical release criteria versus batch quantities for intermediate use in research or non-energy storage applications.
Impurity profiles arise from reagent selection and process vessel material, making in-process monitoring and container compatibility essential. Batch-to-batch consistency is maintained using calibrated process controls and continuous analytical verification throughout the workflow. Parameters such as final water content or trace metal burden are not universal and remain tightly grade-dependent. The internal release standard integrates both routine instrumental analyses and proprietary performance benchmarks derived from customer feedback. We periodically adjust these criteria in response to changes in legislative or market-driven requirements.
Customs classifications for lithium salts continue to evolve. As end-user regions update control lists or introduce new battery raw material restrictions, documentation and HS submission must reflect the actual use case and composition. Close coordination with logistics, regulatory affairs, and technical teams supports timely clearance and minimization of customs disputes, reducing the risk of shipment delays or misdeclaration penalties.
Production batches of Lithium Bis(fluorosulfonyl)imide (LiFSI) typically deliver a white to off-white solid. The fine, granular crystalline form is most common, yet material appearance can shift depending on production grade and water content. Odor remains faint or undetectable under standard industrial handling. The melting point varies with purity and trace moisture; dry, high-purity material often displays a slightly increased melting onset. Boiling and flash points for this salt have limited practical relevance given its thermal decomposition at elevated temperatures; manufacturers focus on thermal stability above ambient during handling steps. Density shows moderate variation with physical form, compaction, and hydration, affecting storage and transport calculations.
LiFSI displays good chemical persistence when shielded from moisture, but hydrolysis risk rises in humid conditions. Reactivity toward strong bases and acid chlorides, as well as protic solvents, must be anticipated in process design. Problems with corrosion or product degradation emerge above moderate heat or under long-term exposure to atmospheric moisture. Application-specific grades are assessed for trace halide, acid, or organic impurity profiles, affecting reactivity in electrolyte blending or synthesis applications.
Solubility parameters depend on the production grade and residual water content. LiFSI dissolves in polar aprotic solvents typical to battery and specialty chemistry sectors, with solution preparation method being pivotal for downstream performance. Pre-dissolution grade assessment for metallic, acid, and organic impurities supports reproducibility for demanding electrolyte formulations. Water pick-up during weighing or transfer requires mitigation in humid environments to maintain solution clarity and prevent adverse side reactions in process or application.
Specification tables account for the intended final application—battery, catalyst, or industrial chemical—since each sector defines acceptable impurity, particle size, and residual water levels. Detailed release criteria get established by mutual agreement between manufacturer QC and customer technical teams. On-site and third-party analytics address batch-to-batch consistency for lithium content, purity, free acid, and elemental trace contaminants.
Production and downstream efficacy hinge on reducing halide, sulfate, and organic byproduct residue as much as possible. Critical impurity limits for chloride, fluoride, and unreacted species are governed by both process route and customer technical documentation. Impurities can influence solubility, ionic conductivity, and storage stability, prompting ongoing review of purification strategies.
Manufacturers depend on validated titrimetric, IC, ICP-OES/MS, and Karl Fischer protocols for batch inspection. Each test method is selected according to both regulatory expectations and in-use risk profile. Significant deviations from quality or purity criteria trigger root-cause analysis and process adjustment.
Raw material selection weighs both purity and supply continuity. Lithium carbonate or hydroxide, fluorosulfonyl chloride, and supporting bases typically serve as primary precursors. Process reliability links directly to feedstock purity, and all inbound lots undergo staged verification to limit foreign ion ingress and batch cross-contamination.
Synthesis proceeds via stepwise or direct reaction between lithium precursor and fluorosulfonyl intermediates in strictly controlled reaction vessels. Mechanistic understanding centers on temperature moderation, reagent addition rate, and atmospheric exclusion to prevent unwanted side reactions or product decomposition. Industrial practice has demonstrated that solvent medium and mixing rates bear substantial influence on both product phase and side product formation.
Process engineers implement staged addition, filtration, and washing cycles to manage reaction kinetics and impurity partitioning. Moisture and residual acidity present the chief contamination risks, so intermediate control points for pH and conductivity serve as go/no-go gates. Final product isolation employs solvent exchange and temperature-gradient crystallization, with additional drying cycles to meet anhydrous specifications where required.
Final release depends on achieving product-specific targets for lithium content, anion balance, moisture, and major impurities. QC labs operate according to both external standards and in-house documentation, refining release parameters across new process generations or custom synthesis runs.
LiFSI demonstrates stability in common polar aprotic solvents but readily engages in ion exchange and salt metathesis with strong bases and selected metals. Its use as an electrolyte salt for LIBs stems from its ability to dissociate into conductive ions even at moderate concentrations.
Practical modification or downstream derivatization depends on reaction medium, temperature, and exclusion of reactive contaminants. Manufacturers advise against processing above modest heat or in the presence of atmospheric moisture, which can cause hydrolysis or loss of functional anion.
End-use varieties include advanced electrolyte blends, polymer-modified ion conductors, and selected catalysts. Significant process adaptation is required to support custom derivatives; such production is generally performed under direct technical agreement with downstream users.
In-plant and customer storage best practices include low ambient temperature, desiccation, and oxygen exclusion to prevent hydrolysis and acidification. Product exposure to light does not typically affect bulk qualities, though container compatibility with fluorinated solids or acids remains important. Gas-tight containers and minimal headspace limit atmospheric ingress, prolonging product shelf stability.
Standard packing selects high-density polyethylene or fluorinated polymers for bulk transport and storage, avoiding materials that may react with acidic or fluoride-containing compounds. Drum and liner systems undergo review for leaching and permeability to humidity.
Shelf stability reflects cumulative exposure to moisture, heat, and reactive impurities. In the absence of those stressors, product performance holds over extended storage cycles. Visible clumping, discoloration, or unusual odor may indicate degradation and prompt batch retesting.
Hazard evaluation draws on data from both raw reagent and finished product, focusing on primary skin, eye, and respiratory irritation due to hydrolytic acid release. The classification is determined per current global harmonization standards, and internal technical support teams keep SDS data in line with regulatory changes and raw material risk ratings.
Main hazards arise from accidental contact with water or incompatible materials, which produce corrosive fluorosulfonic acid or hydrogen fluoride. Operations mandate full PPE at all production and packaging stages. Technical procedures detail engineering controls and worker decontamination practices.
Acute or chronic toxicity is minimized by physical form and containment in closed systems. Manufacturer-run toxicity studies and industrial hygiene data support exposure risk assessment, informing safe handling and emergency protocols.
Worker exposure limits adhere to internal policy and local regulation, drawing on toxicological literature and observed operator experience. Site practices emphasize sealed operations, point-of-use ventilation, and rigorous housekeeping to limit incidental exposure or contamination outside controlled zones.
Lithium bis(fluorosulfonyl)imide (LiFSI) production depends heavily on access to high-purity precursors, especially lithium sources and fluorosulfonyl reagents. Plant output varies seasonally, affected by raw material imports, planned maintenance, and regulatory controls on fluorine chemistry. As a manufacturer, batch planning is optimized based on forecasted orders and raw material shipment schedules. Sudden spikes in demand or disruptions in upstream supply chains can force adjustments to slotting and shift allocation. Typical values depend on grade and customer project pipeline, with technical or battery grades managed through production slots dedicated to either custom or standard specifications.
Lead time fluctuates based on grade complexity, purification needs, and analytical turnaround. For battery-grade or high-purity LiFSI, bottlenecks arise from extended crystallization, filtration, and trace metal testing. Standard technical grades often move faster. Minimum order quantity (MOQ) reflects economics of batch process scale and downstream drum or custom packaging; typically, full-batch or sub-batch lots are offered, though exceptions exist for contract partners with established annual offtake. Express orders for custom grades or non-standard packaging may entail surcharges due to re-tooling and QC protocol extensions.
Packaging formats vary on grade, moisture-sensitivity, and safety regulations. Industrial drums with liner systems protect bulk technical grade from atmospheric exposure. Battery-grade relies on pre-dried, small-volume fluoropolymer bottles or UN-certified drums under argon, targeting trace moisture and particulate control. All packaging designs align with GHS and transport codes (ADR, IATA) governing lithium salt shipping in target regions. For custom, small-scale R&D needs, ampoules or micro-packaging in inert atmospheres can be arranged pending slot availability.
Shipping options align with hazardous goods regulations, preferred INCOTERMS, and buyer compliance documentation. Domestic delivery in high-demand regions often supports DDP or FCA arrangements, with export shipments requiring MSDS, Certificates of Analysis, and, for sensitive grades, traceability certificates. Payment terms scale with customer track record and financial assessment; standard accounts operate on net terms, while new contracts typically begin with partial prepayments or L/C as risk mitigants.
Raw material cost structure centers on the prevailing market rates for lithium carbonate or hydroxide (battery vs. technical grade), fluorosulfonyl reagents, anhydrous solvents, and specialized consumables for purification and drying. Suppliers offering stable, uncontaminated feedstocks impact yield and waste ratios. Fluctuations often stem from transport costs for hazardous reagents, currency volatility in lithium-extracting jurisdictions, and seasonal impacts on plant operation or supply chain bottlenecks.
Raw material volatility arises from lithium market imbalances (especially from major producers in South America and Asia), regulations on fluorine process plants, and environmental inspection cycles in China and the EU. Spikes also emerge when competitors ramp up battery-grade cathode or electrolyte production, tightening demand for trace impurity-controlled salts and fluorosulfonyl intermediates. Price pressure trickles through to LiFSI as production grades diverge: technical, electronic, and battery grades command significant price deltas due to escalating analytical and purification overheads.
Pricing correlates directly with specification stringency. Battery-grade LiFSI commands premium rates due to sub-ppm metal control, minimized organofluorine byproducts, and full QMS traceability. Analytical-grade routes, required for research or specialty applications, drive costs through multi-step re-crystallization, enhanced drying, and comprehensive impurity screening. Packaging format and certification load further differentiates pricing, with UN transport and cleanroom-compatible containers increasing cost per unit shipped.
Demand for LiFSI continues to accelerate, led by automotive cell manufacturers, energy storage integrators, and advanced electronics. China and Japan anchor most commercial-scale production. Demand is rising steeply in the US and EU where battery gigafactories anchor local cathode supply chains. Supply remains regionally concentrated due to technical, regulatory, and export control constraints on fluorochemicals.
US: Automotive and stationary storage projects drive significant offtake, with several local battery-material projects underway to de-risk Asian supply concentration.
EU: Regional supply limited by fluorosulfonyl regulation, with imports dominating—manufacturers targeting qualification to emerging local cell makers.
JP: Mature domestic electrolyte supply chain and stable partnerships keep supply tight but predictable.
IN: Early-stage adoption as gigafactory projects commence; limited local production, high import sensitivity.
CN: Largest concentration of LiFSI synthesis, with direct links to global battery supply chains. Regulatory tightening and periodic pollution inspections inject volatility.
By 2026, market consensus points to gradual price stabilization as upstream lithium mining and fluorination capacity expands. Entry of new purification technologies and regional fabrication sites should ease bottlenecks, though shifts in electric vehicle policy or raw material shocks can still trigger sharp, short-medium-term swings. Battery-grade price differentials over technical grade will persist unless region-specific qualification/standardization narrows analytical requirements. Data source: consolidated multi-year supply/demand forecast and published industry association reports, cross-referenced with major trade statistics.
Market analysis leverages quarterly production tallies, official trade statistics, and real-time spot market quotations from key regions, combined with customer inquiry volumes and internal CRM-driven order trends. Quality-grade benchmarking references independent lab analyses and raw material certification histories from established upstream partners.
A series of joint ventures announced between LiFSI producers and global cell manufacturers signal continued efforts to lock in refined lithium sources and in-license purification IP. Emergency global supply chain reviews triggered by regional lithium export controls continue to influence spot market volatility across major consuming regions. Technical collaborations with downstream electrolyte and cathode makers shape future product grades and qualification programs.
Ongoing changes to hazardous chemical shipment rules in the EU and North America require periodic updates to packing, labelling, and transport documentation. Chinese authorities continue to implement stricter industrial waste and emissions controls, occasionally delaying precursor manufacturing slots. RoHS and REACH notifications increasingly requested by downstream partners for electronics and battery markets, shaping future analytical workload and grade development.
Manufacturers investing in upstream integration to reduce exposure to lithium sourcing shocks and developing recycling protocols for process waste streams. Alternative process chemistries under development to address potential precursor bottlenecks and regional regulatory risk exposure. Ongoing upgrades to analytical labs and in-line process sensors to reduce lead time for battery-grade release and to support evolving customer QA audits in critical markets.
Lithium Bis(fluorosulfonyl)imide supports several high-precision sectors. Its primary areas include lithium-ion and sodium-ion battery electrolytes, supercapacitors, and specialty electrolytic applications such as electrochemical synthesis and plating. In battery systems, demand for performance, thermal stability, and low impurity count set a technical benchmark above commodity salts. Clients in electrolyte production, research, and automotive propulsion require consistency across lots to minimize batch-to-batch variation in cell performance. For organic synthesis and specialty catalysis, the tolerance for impurities—especially inorganic and moisture traces—varies with reaction sensitivity and downstream purification potential.
| Application | Recommended Grade | Key Parameters |
|---|---|---|
| Lithium-Ion Batteries | Batteries/High-Purity Grade | Trace metal content, water content, halides, organic residues |
| Sodium-Ion Batteries | Batteries/High-Purity Grade | Potassium and sodium traces, residual solvents, moisture |
| Supercapacitor Electrolytes | Electrochemical/Analytical Grade | Conductivity, moisture, total acid number |
| Specialty Electrolytic Synthesis | Industrial/General Grade | Residual chlorides, base metal impurity levels |
| Research & Development | Custom/Ultra-High Purity | Application-driven specification set by lab protocols |
Each application demands vigilance in controlling distinct specifications. Battery markets require sub-ppm water and transition metal levels to prevent side reactions during cycling and to uphold electrochemical stability across the warranty period. In supercapacitors and research labs, high conductivity and minimized acid byproducts govern acceptance criteria. Practitioners working on synthesis or plating often have broader tolerances but require clarity on organic and inorganic residue content because catalyst poisoning or plating roughness results from unmanaged contaminants. End-use defines which impurity bands, particle size fractions, and solution behavior most critically affect product value and performance.
The end-use scenario drives the technical starting point. Automotive-grade batteries specify reliability for years of cycling, while lab-scale syntheses can tolerate occasional compositional drift if protocols adapt accordingly. Engage with our technical team for clarification on sensitive equipment or pilot process adoption, as changes to electrolyte chemistry or plating bath specification warrant pre-qualification testing.
Some jurisdictions have prescriptive impurity controls, especially for automotive or grid storage applications. European REACH support, China RoHS limits, or U.S. DOT shipping classification all shape which grades are available for export and use. Documenting regulatory boundaries at the procurement stage helps refine offer and guarantees compliance matching certificates and MSDS documentation from production through delivery.
Practical purity selection balances cost versus technical constraint. High-purity electrolyte grades undergo multiple recrystallization and vacuum drying cycles to limit transition metal, halide, and organic leachable levels. This additional processing adds lead time and yield loss but delivers the stability and compatibility tested by cell manufacturers. General industrial grades follow simpler routes and in-line drying; these suffice where absolute purity is less critical. List technical limits or request in-house test reports to match grade to functional requirements and tolerance bands.
Batch size and budget often determine feasible quality thresholds. Custom processing for kilo-scale laboratory users enables tighter controls, but large-scale or price-sensitive procurement favors supply chain optimization and lot-matched consistency. Early engagement with production allows allocation of appropriate resources and timely scheduling, especially for made-to-order specifications.
Before full-scale integration, sample validation matches theoretical performance to actual field results. Pilot batches let end users check compatibility with current cell formulations or process streams. Our technical service team supports on-site adjustment guidance, impurity profile clarification, and repeat analyses if customer instrumentation diverges from reference methods. Reliable grade selection benefits from this feedback loop, anchoring subsequent shipments to validated and documented quality attributes.
Selection of raw fluorinated intermediates and lithium base determines baseline impurity risk—batchable precursors and closed-system liquid transfer mitigate moisture pickup during intermediate handling. Control points such as water content and residual metal analysis follow at each crystallization and drying step, traced by lot. In-line HPLC and ion chromatography check for organic and inorganic residues, flagging off-spec salt before compounding. For premium grades, extra passes in vacuum ovens and trace metal filtering tighten total impurity levels, creating more uniform conductivity and chemical compatibility for high-performance electrochemical tasks.
QC release of each batch hinges on passing comprehensive in-house criteria negotiated with downstream clients. Storage stability often reflects initial moisture and acid content—improper containment invites hydrolysis or degradation, so airtight packaging and inert gas purges anchor long-term usability. Orders built with customer input on application, purity, and regulatory fit yield more reliable field outcomes and reduce returns or rework. Industry-seasoned clients often request retained reference samples from production lots to back up root cause analysis and speed troubleshooting if performance drifts post-integration. This technical alignment underpins our manufacturing and supply philosophy.
Production facilities for Lithium Bis(fluorosulfonyl)imide operate under established quality management systems. Certifications such as ISO 9001 form the backbone for batch traceability, clear assignment of process responsibility, and documentation at all critical stages, from raw material qualification through to finished product release. Yearly audits, both internal and external, are routine. These audits focus on corrective action tracking, statistical process controls, and the verification of document control systems.
Quality management systems extend to supplier qualification processes and process change controls. Any process modification—related to equipment, raw material, or operating procedure—triggers a documented risk assessment and, when necessary, customer notification.
Markets or end-use segments sometimes demand compliance with specialty standards. When downstream users in battery manufacturing, electronics, or high-purity organic synthesis provide explicit requirements (e.g., REACH registration, local product stewardship documentation, or compliance with certain purity thresholds), these certifications remain product-grade and customer-application dependent.
For export shipments and access to regulated regions, regulatory dossiers or certificates of origin may be provided, subject to the buyer’s due diligence protocols. Product documentation includes lot-specific certificates of analysis and, depending on grade, may extend to impurity profiling, water content, and metal trace level analytical reports. These are generated according to in-house validated analytical methods, which are aligned with recognized industry practices whenever possible.
The technical dossier typically includes bulk lot COAs, process deviation reports, and periodic impurity trend summaries. Extended impurity data, NMR, ion chromatography, and Karl Fischer moisture results are disclosed if required by the specification or upon specific customer request, especially for grades targeting organoelectronics or Li-ion battery applications. Final release is contingent on conforming to internal batch approval criteria set collaboratively with key customers when special requirements exist.
Routine retention of production and test records exceeds the minimum period required by law, supporting trace-back for customer inquiries and audits. Documented standard operating procedures for sampling and release testing ensure consistency of delivered analytical data. Proprietary process details are not generally disclosed but can be covered under NDA as required for qualified industrial partners.
Plant infrastructure supports production and inventory management based on core demand from electronic chemicals and energy storage markets. Capacity and scalability planning adjust output in line with forecast bulk and specialty grade orders. Core production lines feature dedicated reactors and controlled-feed systems that minimize cross-contamination risk, with buffer storage to absorb fluctuations in regional or project-specific demand.
Contract frameworks reflect both annual offtake agreements for high-volume partners and order-based flexibility for variable project demand or new product trials. This approach protects both base load manufacturing priorities and time-to-market for customer-specific development projects. Production scheduling, raw material procurement, and risk reserve inventories align with mutually agreed forecasts and blanket purchase orders where these agreements are in place.
Raw material selection procedures monitor and qualify lithium salts, fluorosulfonyl-imide intermediates, and solvent systems based on traceability and impurity profile data. Change control protocols for raw material specification, alternate supplier qualification, and process deviation are consistently applied. Finished product supply relies on in-process control at key synthesis and purification steps, with segregation of finished lots by grade and lot history.
Batch-to-batch consistency management pulls from validated process parameters—temperature regimes, reactant feed rates, washing solvent quality, and filtration stages—which are set according to product grade and end-use requirements. Release to market occurs only after completion of release testing per agreed customer or internal QC specifications.
Sample provision for evaluation projects or pre-shipment trials follows established internal workflows. Prospective partners submit requests subject to end-use disclosure and NDA review where proprietary formulations are discussed. Sample grade and package format match the intended use (R&D, scale-up, or pilot production) and reflect available standard or custom specifications. Technical support for application trials includes provision of representative COA data and detailed impurity reporting when required for downstream qualification.
Flexible business cooperation covers spot orders, rolling forecasts, volume contracts, and project-based development runs. Direct technical and logistics interfaces reduce turnaround time for order placement, shipment scheduling, and documentation transfer. For project-based users, batch reservation protocols and advanced shipment notification support pull-based inventory control at the customer site.
Special terms regarding order minimums, delivery intervals, packaging modification, or on-site QC audit access are negotiated on a case-by-case basis to align with production realities and customer project needs. Core partners receive escalation access to technical support, advanced notice on any supply interruption risk, and joint review of process or specification changes whenever downstream impact is anticipated.
Current research in Lithium Bis(fluorosulfonyl)imide (LiFSI) focuses on enhancing both the purity and the reliability of the material for advanced battery applications. Demand from high-energy lithium-ion batteries and the shift toward solid-state electrolytes has driven attention to consistent ion conductivity and minimal trace metal contamination. Polymer electrolyte compatibility and low-temperature performance continue to receive scrutiny, especially for automotive and stationary energy storage.
Manufacturers observe industrial demand for LiFSI expanding from classic lithium-ion batteries to new chemistries—solid-state, lithium metal, and next-generation hybrid systems. Requirements from electric mobility and grid-scale storage emphasize both cycle stability and operational safety. Use cases in specialty capacitors and high-voltage systems require the producer to control not just ionic conductivity, but also hydrolysis sensitivity and thermal behavior according to each customer’s design parameters.
Key challenges include moisture sensitivity, control of trace impurities, and reproducibility of crystal morphology across production batches. Moisture during synthesis and handling leads to HF formation, impacting both downstream equipment and safety. Purification needs robust in-process drying and containment procedures. Recent process improvements focus on continuous-flow synthesis routes and inline drying modules to limit exposure and reduce batch discrepancies.
The next cycle of demand growth comes from both global battery gigafactories and regional pilot lines. Most large-scale procurements require manufacturer evidence of long-term supply reliability, tailored to performance targets in energy density and operational windows. Contract terms increasingly ask for traceability from raw material to finished salt, with local content rules defining specification grades per geography.
On the production floor, shifts in process pathways include selective precursor purification and alternate sulfonylation agents for greater throughput and lower dependency on critical raw materials. Process control is moving toward digitized tracking of key parameters. These include moisture control during drying, purity verification by ion chromatography, and batch-to-batch morphological consistency through digital imaging. The trend toward integration with downstream users’ electrolyte plants drives requests for pre-dissolved LiFSI in bespoke solvents, serviced under joint development agreements.
Sustainability discussions emphasize raw material sourcing traceability and reduction of fluorinated byproducts. Producers work on reaction route selection aimed at minimizing HF evolution and on increasing reclaim of sulfonyl-containing intermediates. Projects have begun on solvent reuse and engineered process water cycles for containment of fluorinated residues. End-users require verified documentation of these steps before making volume commitments.
Manufacturers offer direct consult with technical and QC specialists, addressing topics from electrolyte formulation compatibilities to troubleshooting abnormal cell impedance. Support draws on the production plant’s batch release data, impurity spectra, and proprietary knowledge of storage and handling pitfalls, especially at high humidity or temperature. For customers developing new grades, pilot supply is coupled with data on observed performance across target application scenarios.
Downstream integration often reveals warehouse or application-specific factors that shape formulation strategies. Bulk packaging design is revised jointly with customers requiring inert atmosphere handling or special drum linings. Charge/discharge performance feedback from end-use pilot lines is reviewed against retained batch samples to resolve formulation setbacks. For non-standard applications, such as solid-state systems or hybrid chemistries, support teams supply controlled impurity spectrum samples for application screening.
After-sales services center on traceability, batch documentation, and investigation of any off-spec events. The commitment includes timely supply of COA, full batch test records, and sample re-testing under controlled conditions. For long-term supply agreements, manufacturers maintain retention samples and process data logs, supporting end-user audits or regulatory verifications as required. Continuous feedback from the field guides further improvements to both manufacturing process and service procedures.
Lithium Bis(fluorosulfonyl)imide production begins with tight control over input chemicals and process conditions. The facility operates under a closed reaction system to manage purity and output, using proprietary methods honed from years of hands-on process engineering. On our production floor, each batch flows through a series of filtration and purification steps, monitored for moisture and trace metal levels at multiple stages, not just at the endpoint. This approach ensures the final product meets strict moisture and impurity requirements that advanced battery and electrolyte manufacturers demand.
Manufacturers in lithium-ion battery and specialty electrolyte sectors rely on Lithium Bis(fluorosulfonyl)imide as a high-performance conducting salt. This material enables next-generation energy storage solutions and specialized capacitor applications. Clients consistently require salt with precise particle characteristics for blending with solvent systems. High-end laboratories and pilot facilities use the product for research into energy-dense chemistries and thermal-stable battery technologies. Any deviation from critical specification points can affect yield or performance in these sensitive settings.
Batch traceability begins at sourcing of fundamental reagents. Our in-line and post-reaction QC testing includes chromatography and elemental analysis before any material reaches the packaging line. Each lot receives a traceability code directly tied to its batch parameters, supported by regularly calibrated analytical instruments. This in-house quality control infrastructure reduces off-specification risks and limits the need for rework. Repeat customers—especially those running automated dosing or charging lines—depend on this level of consistency to reduce process adjustments and waste.
Our production schedule allows for consistent output tailored to bulk or pilot needs, with nimble adjustment for forecast surges. Crystalline product is sealed in moisture-barrier packaging under dry atmosphere, then placed in approved drum, can, or custom intermediate bulk containers. Automated packaging minimizes operator error and limits contamination from handling. Logistics teams manage documentation and customs compliance for export shipments, coordinating with industrial buyers on labeling, lot assignment, and delivery timing for uninterrupted supply.
Support teams work directly with engineering and R&D personnel at customer sites on technical integration. Common requests involve solubility adjustments, particle size targeting, or compatibility with novel solvents. Feedback from clients has driven several process refinements in response to challenges in actual manufacturing lines, not just in laboratory testing. Our technical staff hold direct experience in battery, electrolyte, and specialty chemical environments, allowing practical advice rather than theoretical troubleshooting.
Industrial buyers require predictability from suppliers. Our framework targets measurable delivery performance, minimized deviation, and open channels for batch-specific questions. Procurement and supply chain professionals find that centralizing production and quality oversight at one site helps control risk. By maintaining control of process, packaging, and outbound logistics, the costs linked to re-qualification or re-testing remain low. For commercial partners and distributors, reliability in documentation and lot assignment streamlines inventory and resale planning, especially when integrated with ERP or MRP systems.
| Capability | Description |
|---|---|
| Production Scale | Continuous and batch capability, scalable from pilot to multiple-metric-ton lots |
| Analytical Coverage | In-house lab: trace metal, moisture, particle distribution, solubility screens |
| Packaging Solutions | High-barrier sealed, humidity-protected formats, sized for end-use needs |
| Supply Management | Forecast-driven production, coordinated scheduling, export compliance support |
| Technical Liaison | Direct process and application support from chemical engineers |
By controlling production from raw material to finished package, our facility stands as an experienced partner to industrial buyers in need of consistent and technically-backed Lithium Bis(fluorosulfonyl)imide.
Over the years, lithium bis(fluorosulfonyl)imide (LiFSI) has moved into the spotlight as an advanced electrolyte material, addressing key performance challenges in high-performance lithium-ion batteries. As the direct manufacturer, we deal daily with questions about impurity content and water levels in LiFSI, so the factors and real-world impacts are extremely clear to our team.
Our experience handling this sensitive compound has made it obvious that controlling impurities is not only about meeting an industry benchmark — it shapes every downstream result in cell performance. Substantial trace metals such as iron, copper, or sodium can promote unwanted side reactions in batteries, leading to shortened cycle life or even safety issues. Even low-level organic residues from synthesis can compromise the electrolyte’s stability and diminish its value for customers focused on long-lasting, reliable cell chemistries.
For these reasons, every batch leaving our facility undergoes intensive metal analysis. We apply a combination of high-purity raw materials, closed-system synthesis, and continuous filtration to keep total metal impurities in the ultralow ppm or sub-ppm range, as measured by ICP-MS. Non-volatile organic contaminants are tracked by NMR and HPLC to suppress any residues stemming from unreacted precursors or unwanted side products. These steps represent the ground floor of usable battery-grade LiFSI, not just marketing talk — our rejection rate for batches not meeting spec stands as proof.
Moisture control in LiFSI runs even more critical than in other lithium salts. LiFSI quickly degrades when exposed to traces of water, generating HF and related decomposition products. The presence of just a few tens of ppm of water can result in corrosive byproducts, eroding separator integrity and attacking current collectors inside the battery cell.
Inside our production areas, the team maintains a dry atmosphere using multi-stage vacuum-drying and glovebox transfer. Analytical labs monitor water content by Karl Fischer titration down to below 20 ppm, with a release standard tightly enforced at <50 ppm for the majority of applications. This might sound technical, but customers relying on LiFSI for next-generation chemistries cannot afford inconsistencies caused by moisture-laden product. We routinely supply detailed COAs and make sure our containers are moisture-impermeable during both storage and transit.
Every large-scale synthesis run throws new variables into the mix: seasonal humidity, minute compositional shifts in inputs, even operator error can affect impurity profile and moisture pickup. We invest in dedicated QA/QC infrastructure and real-time detection of off-spec product, so less than 1% of total production ends up outside our declared tolerances. The culture at our facility pushes for continuous improvement in purity benchmarks. Collaborating with end-users, we have even tailored product characteristics for niche applications, such as ultra-low metal content grades for solid-state cell research.
No shortcut exists when it comes to purity and moisture standards in LiFSI. Direct manufacturers bear the weight of this responsibility. Each specification we publish is backed by raw analytical data and years of process development, not generic claims. We welcome technical discussions with cell developers and research teams to bridge the gap between our production and their performance targets. At this level, only factory-integrity and hands-on process control can deliver the reliability advanced battery applications require.
In our facility, daily operations revolve around meeting technical demands and schedules that customers bring to us for Lithium Bis(fluorosulfonyl)imide, or LiFSI. We know researchers, battery cell producers, and specialty chemical formulators often raise one foundational question: what is the minimum order quantity (MOQ) and what lead time should you expect when sourcing directly from us as the manufacturer?
Producing LiFSI starts in the reactor, not a warehouse shelf. We must initiate a new production run every time a client places a non-standard request. Our lowest feasible MOQ reflects the scale at which our process runs efficiently and safely. Right now, our minimum order size is 10 kg for most custom requests. This figure supports high purity and prevents quality loss through unnecessary exposure or repackaging. For larger industrial collaborations, batch sizes can reach several hundred kilograms in a single run, as our systems and logistics are designed for these volumes.
We do not offer kilogram or sub-kilogram samples taken from commercial stock that has sat on a shelf. Every batch comes fresh from our production line, sealed in new, quality-tested containers. This approach ensures product stability, controlled storage conditions, and traceable lot records for every shipment. Long-term clients rarely ask for less than a full drum once they see the efficiency of our logistics and the reduction of transit risks.
Real-world lead time for Lithium Bis(fluorosulfonyl)imide begins with sourcing raw materials, continues through synthesis, purification, and quality assurance, and only ends when the shipment passes our outbound inspection. Average lead time for a standard MOQ order runs four to five weeks from order confirmation. Expedited cycles are possible for certain established clients, but only with prior planning. The schedule accounts for raw material volatility, batch cycle time, purification stages, and substantial real-world factors like customs handling for international buyers.
If we ever face irregular supply on an upstream precursor, our technical core team informs purchasing and production to avoid surprise delays. We carry some buffer capacity but never cut steps from the quality system. Anything faster than a month almost always compromises critical checks or safety audits, which carries no appeal for us or those downstream who count on purity and performance in energy storage or advanced synthesis.
MOQ and lead time questions often mask larger issues: inventory risk, financing, or new product trials. To support R&D we reserve a small annual quota of material packaged in 5 or 10 kg drums for evaluation. Long-term partners who forecast their needs see the most value. Early planning, especially for pre-commercial projects, makes a real difference—enabling coordinated slotting within our production queue and helping optimize freight or secure regulatory documents ahead of customs declaration.
We encourage regular dialogue with our technical and commercial team for scale-up requests, as we can analyze how pipeline orders will fit into our reactor calendar. We leverage decades of synthesis experience to prevent bottlenecks. Lithium salts, especially those with high reactivity like LiFSI, demand respect not just on the bench but in storage, transport, and order planning.
For every customer, balancing MOQ and lead time is never a stock answer. It reflects direct communication, realistic manufacturing throughput, and operational discipline from order through finished batch.
Working as a direct manufacturer of Lithium Bis(fluorosulfonyl)imide, we have seen global regulators tighten requirements around packaging, labeling, and shipping documentation. For those of us producing at scale and exporting worldwide, these rules go far beyond just putting a drum on a pallet. We navigate dangerous goods regulations that are specific to our chemical’s unique hazards, especially because Lithium Bis(fluorosulfonyl)imide is not only reactive under certain conditions but also falls under strict international transport codes.
We use heavy-duty high-density polyethylene (HDPE) containers, steel drums, or UN-certified composite bins that can stand up to impact and corrosion. Non-standard or questionable packaging makes border inspections a nightmare—the risk is never worth it. Every batch receives tamper-evident seals. This prevents short-cutting and protects both our cargo and brand reputation. Avoiding packaging shortcuts keeps the product secure, which is crucial for chemicals recognized as hazardous. We do not ship in non-approved containers, even if customers ask to lower costs.
Each container features permanently affixed, chemical-resistant labels designed to withstand handling, moisture, and sunlight during global transit. Labels state the full chemical name, the relevant UN number, hazard pictograms, and handling instructions. Our team includes the GHS (Globally Harmonized System) compliant hazard statements and precautionary phrases. That GHS pictogram on our drums is no decoration—without it, we risk missed connections or detentions at customs.
We include the batch number and production date so downstream users and regulators can trace material to a specific lot. No ambiguity. Our labeling goes beyond domestic requirements, following IMDG (sea freight), IATA (air), and ADR (road) codes for every shipment, even if the consignment only passes through a compliant country as a stopover.
Shipping Lithium Bis(fluorosulfonyl)imide internationally demands seamless paperwork. We include a full set of shipping documentation—commercial invoice, detailed packing list, and a signed Safety Data Sheet (SDS) based on the latest GHS revision. Transportation regulations call for a dangerous goods declaration (DGD), with each shipment accompanied by mode-specific declarations (IMDG or IATA). If the paperwork varies from reality, fines and delays follow.
Preparation does not stop at printing documents. Our logistics staff double-checks alignment among the product label, shipping declaration, and invoice. For every lane, we consult the country-specific restricted substances lists and update documentation when import controls or harmonized tariffs change.
Direct experience in handling compliance saves new exporters a mountain of risk. Knowledge comes from seeing shipments move smoothly across borders or get stuck due to missing certificates. Our technical support prepares the product to withstand both the journey and the scrutiny of global customs officials. We keep lines of communication open with our partners to anticipate and solve documentation hiccups before cargo rolls out of the gate.
In the end, the value of consistent, regulation-driven packaging, labeling, and documentation is not abstract: it determines whether orders clear customs and reach customers safely. For us as the manufacturer, strict control of the process protects every link in the chain, supports long-term business, and builds trust with global clients who need the reliability that comes with factory-direct oversight.
For product inquiries, sample requests, quotations or after-sales support, please feel free to contact me directly via sales9@bouling-chem.com, +8615651039172 or WhatsApp: +8615651039172
