1-Cyanopropyl-2,3-Dimethylimidazolium Chloride stands out in the growing class of ionic liquids featuring imidazolium-based cations. Chemists working with advanced synthesis recognize this compound for its remarkable thermal stability, solubility characteristics, and versatility as a raw material in a variety of environments. This substance combines the chemical features of both cyanopropyl and methylfunctional groups within the imidazolium ring, resulting in a range of physical behaviors under standard laboratory conditions. Experts in materials science and industrial chemistry rely on its predictable melting point and crystalline stability for applications demanding a robust, highly polar ionic environment. Such characteristics make it one of the more dependable materials available for work in electrochemistry, catalysis research, and development of advanced separation techniques. The long, semi-polar side chain differentiates it from other imidazolium salts and introduces a distinct balance between organic compatibility and ionic strength, critical for researchers venturing into novel reaction media.
Chemically, this material features a 1-cyanopropyl group attached to the imidazolium core, further stabilized by two methyl groups occupying the 2 and 3 positions on the ring. The molecular formula reads as C9H14ClN3. Within the crystalline lattice, chloride ion acts as the anchoring anion, holding the cation in a tight ionic association. Through direct observation—powder X-ray studies or even everyday lab crystallization—it's easy to notice the way this chloride partners with the imidazolium cation, laying the foundation for the unique ionic conductivity often cited in technical literature. With this chemical makeup, the molar mass stands at 215.68 g/mol, a notable figure among ionic liquids designed for both reactivity and solvation power.
1-Cyanopropyl-2,3-Dimethylimidazolium Chloride most often appears as a white to off-white crystalline solid. It's dense, with a specific gravity typically ranging from 1.18 to 1.30 g/cm³, lending a substantial physical presence compared to similar organic salts. Handling this substance on the bench, you'd see it available as flakes or a fine powder—sometimes in pearl or bead-like granules, depending on the mode of production or recent storage conditions. Dedicated chemical suppliers might also offer it as a viscous solution, built from dissolving the raw solid in polar solvents for easier handling or quicker reaction set-up. As a chemically stable solid at room temperature, it doesn't melt or decompose too quickly, making it manageable for scaling up batch processes. When kept sealed and dry, it retains both color and form without breaking down under air or light, which proves handy for researchers keeping stocks over long project timelines.
Industry and regulatory compliance require clear classification. The Harmonized System (HS) Code for 1-Cyanopropyl-2,3-Dimethylimidazolium Chloride commonly falls under 2933.39, which covers heterocyclic compounds with nitrogen hetero-atoms, delivering transparency for international transport, customs documentation, and raw material sourcing. On request, chemical certificates almost always stipulate minimum purity of 98% or higher to satisfy research, electronics, or pharmaceutical-grade requirements. Accompanying technical sheets detail properties like melting point (generally measured between 120-140°C), particle size range (often 50–300 microns in bulk), and moisture tolerance. Given how supply chains shape cost and project viability, this transparency impacts market accessibility and lab-scale reproducibility the world over.
1-Cyanopropyl-2,3-Dimethylimidazolium Chloride remains chemically stable and non-volatile under recommended storage. From a practical safety perspective, this compound doesn't pose the same risks as highly reactive organics or transition metal catalysts, but solid laboratory practice never hurts. Direct contact may lead to mild skin irritation in sensitive users, particularly after repeated exposure, so gloves and standard chemical splash protection remain wise. As a raw material, it can react briskly with strong bases or acids, releasing organic byproducts—basic chemical sense dictates storing it away from active reagents and open water sources. Safety data mark it as harmful if ingested in significant quantities, but systemic toxicity presents only in higher-dose scenarios. Waste management follows local guidelines for organic halide compounds, avoiding drain disposal. For most common small-batch lab work, a sealed glass jar in a cool, dry chemical cabinet works well for both longevity and easy retrieval.
From my own time working alongside materials chemists, this sort of ionic liquid finds repeated use in green chemistry projects and alternative solvent research. Its ionic nature means it can dissolve both salts and organic molecules, which reduces reliance on traditional volatile solvents. Labs pushing for cleaner electrochemistry swap in this compound to drop the risk of fire or harmful vapors, since it doesn't evaporate under regular conditions. Fumes don’t come into play until temperatures far beyond regular lab environments, so air quality in workspaces remains stable. Direct handling guidelines push for use of spatulas and containers dedicated for halide storage, and my experience shows that labeling with hazard pictograms pays off—more than once, I've seen confusion avoided by clear container markings. Proper disposal channels for used or surplus ionic liquid through scheduled chemical waste pick-ups keeps facilities from contamination or accident, building trust with environmental safety auditors and colleagues alike. Integrating more automation while weighing or dispensing reduces user risk for the few who might develop skin reactions over long projects. Procurement from vetted suppliers, especially those following international GHS labeling, lines up with the broader push for traceable, responsible sourcing in the field of specialty chemistry.
