This invention relates to novel ionic liquids with the general formula [cation] [R′—SO
4
] in which R′ is a branched or linear, saturated or unsaturated, aliphatic or alicyclic functionalized or non-functionalized hydrocarbon chain with 3-36 carbon atoms. These novel ionic liquids can be used e.g. as solvents or solvent additives in chemical reactions, as extraction agents or as heat carriers.
Low melting ionic compounds of the general formula (cation) (R′SO
4
) in which R′ is a branched or linear, saturated or unsaturated, aliphatic or alicyclic functionalized or non-functionalized hydrocarbon chain with 3-36 carbon atoms are provided. These compounds can serve as ionic liquids, e.g. as solvents or solvent additives in chemical reactions, as extraction agents or as heat carriers. The compounds comprise a cation and anionic sulfate ester.