Magnetic ionic liquids: synthesis, properties and applications

Magnetic ionic liquids are room temperature ionic liquids, which have paramagnetic properties by themselves without the need of adding magnetic particles. These paramagnetic properties are induced by the anion, the cation or both. Most common paramagnetic ionic liquids are those that contain transition metal or lanthanide complexes in their anion structure. These tuneable fluids present unique physicochemical properties, resulting in responsive materials to an external magnetic field. The reported studies on the synthesis and applications of magnetic ionic liquids have increased in the recent years. Therefore, this review attempts to highlight the achievements and current status concerning the synthesis, properties and main applications of magnetic ionic liquids, providing insights into this research frontier.