1-Carboxymethyl-3-methylimidazolium bromide belongs to a family of ionic liquids well-regarded by chemists and chemical engineers alike. This compound, with its distinct imidazolium backbone, pairs a carboxymethyl side group and a methyl group with a bromide anion. The molecular formula, C7H11BrN2O2, underlines the presence of carbon, hydrogen, nitrogen, oxygen, and bromine, elements which collectively support a broad range of reactivity in experimental settings. The HS Code, 2934999099, neatly tucks it into the broader category of organic chemicals, and this code comes up often for customs and logistical paperwork.
Chemists find that this material arrives in several forms, including fine white or off-white powder, small granular crystals, and sometimes as moist cake depending on the batch and storage conditions. Its density generally hovers around 1.7 g/cm³. Some call it "flakes" or "pearls" in trade catalogs due to its tendency to form with slight shimmer or luster. Held in the palm, the solid feels dense, compact, and persists with a faint chemical scent. Unlike volatile organic compounds, 1-carboxymethyl-3-methylimidazolium bromide barely evaporates and rarely releases dangerous fumes under ambient lab conditions. The melting point ranges from 120°C to 160°C, showing stability above room temperature and making it less prone to accidental liquefaction. For those preparing solutions, this salt demonstrates good water solubility, producing clear, slightly viscous liquids at moderate concentrations. Handling larger volumes, a technician finds it dissolves evenly, without any persistent chunks at typical lab scales.
The molecular structure—an imidazolium cation bearing a carboxylic group—gives this compound an edge for researchers focused on green solvents and catalysis. It doesn’t combust easily, and its low volatility means users rarely worry about inhalation hazards. That doesn’t mean it’s risk-free. Direct exposure, especially if the solid or solution comes in contact with eyes or skin, could cause mild irritation. Any chemical containing bromide merits respect, as acute ingestion or inhalation of dust still poses toxicological risk. Material safety data usually labels this kind of salt as a chemical irritant, prompting anyone nearby to wear gloves and goggles as standard practice. Having handled similar salts, I can say spills clean up swiftly with damp paper, provided the space remains well-ventilated and waste finds its way into proper chemical disposal channels.
This kind of ionic liquid starts as a chemical raw material in various fields, mostly in synthetic organic chemistry, catalysis, and electrochemical research. The imidazolium motif plays a starring role in stabilizing transition states during reactions, especially where green solvents provide a safer, less harmful alternative to traditional organic solvents. Researchers draw clear lines around storage and transport, recognizing the potential environmental impact if bromide ions wash into groundwater. While not conventionally hazardous by industrial standards, long-term accumulation or improper disposal can spell trouble for aquatic life. Responsible handling reflects concern for the environment and personal safety, underlining the importance of solid protocols for storage, transfer, and neutralization.
Most suppliers set purity specifications above 98% for research-grade batches. Those working with large quantities turn to reliable density measurements to calculate precise molarities for solutions. The substance pours smoothly, especially in finely powdered or pearled forms, and resists clumping even in humid conditions when stored in airtight containers. I recall measuring out several hundred grams for a multi-step synthesis, noting that careful weighing and gradual addition to water reduced the risk of dust exposure and promoted a uniform solution. Always store away from bases, strong oxidizers, and acids to prevent unwanted reactions or degradation. The material’s relatively stable nature streamlines inventory tracking and risk management, compared to more reactive chemicals or hygroscopic salts prone to rapid breakdown.
Working directly with 1-carboxymethyl-3-methylimidazolium bromide reveals just how much careful documentation, training, and respect for simple procedures contribute to a safe and successful laboratory environment. Knowledge of its density, solubility, and reactivity brings clarity to its use as a raw material, supporting scientific development and industrial innovation alike. Selecting the right grade and understanding its full chemical profile remain key to effective and responsible applications, from academic journal projects to scaled-up pilot plant runs. Every experience with such chemicals teaches both caution and curiosity, driving safer, smarter approaches in the lab and beyond.
