New series of ionic liquids based on benzalkonium chloride derivatives: Synthesis, characterizations, and applications

New series of ionic liquids based on benzalkonium chloride derivatives are presented in this work. The new ionic liquids are recognized by elemental analysis, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), and hydrogen nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR). They have been considered as promising anti-corrosion and anti-microbial additives in the petroleum industry. In this paper, the anti-corrosion and anti-microbial activities of four synthesized benzalkonium chloride derivatives (BCIL) are measured for carbon steel structure immersed in the formation water and contaminated solution by sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRB). The anti-corrosion properties of BCIL are evaluated using chemical and electrochemical methods. The anti-microbial activities of BCIL were tested against SRB. Collectively, the results confirmed that the new ionic liquids (BCIL) play as anti-corrosion and anti-microbial additives. These new additives led to protect the carbon steel structure from corrosion caused by formation water and from bio-corrosion caused by SRB. •Synthesis of new series of ionic liquids based on benzalkonium chloride derivatives•Their anti-corrosion activities are measured for carbon steel in formation water.•Their anti-microbial activities are tested against SRB.•The explanation and the mechanisms were clearly discussed.