By Isabel Baker and Georgia Ames (Lower Sixth)

During the autumn term, a group of Lower Sixth students have been taking part in cutting edge research about ionic liquids as part of a study organised by the Institute for Research in Schools.

Ionic liquids is an academic research project which we have chosen to take part in this year in order to help us with our future applications, as the project reflects well on UCAS and personal statements, as well as demonstrating an involved interest in chemistry and scientific research.

We are fortunate to be guided by the very experienced Mrs Everest (Senior Science Technician) and Mrs Smart (Head of Science), but the ultimate goal is to have completed a chemical research project almost independently and have become familiar with the techniques and skills frequently used in industry.

So far in the project we have made and analysed ionic liquids in order to assess their properties including conductivity and viscosity. Ionic liquids are currently at the forefront of modern research due to their unique properties which mean that they will not evaporate when heated (as a normal liquid would) and hence cannot pollute the atmosphere. They are so called 'green' solvents, meaning they can dissolve many substances including coal, which are otherwise very polluting when dissolved in a traditional solvent. The project offers an insight into the more industrial side of chemistry, and has been invaluable in furthering our understanding of the vast applications of science outside of the classroom.