The density and surface tension of 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium L-lactate ([emim][L-lactate]) ionic liquid were determined from T = (283.15 to 333.15) K. The coefficients of thermal expansion were calculated from the experimental density results using an empirical correlation for T = (283.15 to 333.15) K. Molecular volume and standard entropies of the IL were calculated from the experimental density values. The surface properties of IL were investigated. The critical temperature and enthalpy of vaporization were also discussed. Density and surface tension have been measured over the whole composition range for {[emim][L-lactate] + water} binary systems at a temperature of 298.15 K and atmospheric pressure. Excess molar volumes V-E and the surface tension deviations delta gamma have been determined. (C) 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.