Ionic liquids were found to be useful media for quenching of aluminum and steel alloys. In mixtures containing up to 10% w/w water or ethanol they prevent film boiling (Leidenfrost effect) and result in very high and constant cooling rates. The ionic liquids [EMIm][NTf2], [EMIm][EtSO4] and Ammoeng®110 exhibit remarkable stability when metals at temperatures well above the ionic liquid decomposition temperature were quenched.
