1-(Ethoxycarbonyl)Methyl-3-Methylimidazolium Chloride stands out in the world of ionic liquids and chemical intermediates, often called by its summary formula C9H15ClN2O2. It features an imidazolium ring system, with an ethoxycarbonylmethyl group at the N1-position and a methyl group at the N3-position, paired with a chloride anion. Its molecular weight tips the scale at 218.68 g/mol. This compound bridges classic organic chemistry and emerging green solvents, offering a set of properties that draw the attention of researchers and industrial chemists alike. Every time I hold a sample, whether in flake, powder, or crystalline form, the subtle off-white to pale yellow appearance always signals its purity and possible moisture absorption, especially in humid settings. The familiar scent from the imidazolium core reminds me that safety measures with personal protective equipment remain essential, even in modern ventilated labs.
1-(Ethoxycarbonyl)Methyl-3-Methylimidazolium Chloride typically appears as solid flakes, irregular crystals, or sometimes as a fine powder, depending on refinement process and supplier. At room temperature, it will not flow like many iconic ionic liquids but stays rigid, often accumulating in containers as pearls or granules. Crystal formation and appearance depend on purity, and even slight moisture traces can affect texture and ease of handling. Its density sits around 1.14 g/cm3, according to published literature, though packing or impurities can nudge this figure slightly. The melting point varies—often reported in the 90-120°C range—which suggests storage at room temperature poses little risk of liquefaction but care remains essential to avoid high-humidity environments; exposure may degrade stability, particularly if the container stays open long. In solutions, it dissolves easily in polar solvents like water or methanol, leading to clear, colorless or faintly yellow solutions—a sign of unreacted or decomposed materials only in the rarest cases.
This chloride salt doesn’t just sit on a shelf. It plays a starring role in ionic liquid research, as both a starting material and a potent solvent, offering a low melting point, non-volatility, and inherent conductivity. These traits arise from the structure—bulky organic cation with a simple chloride counterion—helping researchers push forward on battery technology, catalysis, and sustainable chemistry routes. Companies crafting advanced coatings, specialty polymers, or pharmaceutical intermediates often choose this compound for its unique solubility and stability profiles. Its synthesis generally relies on ethyl chloroacetate and 1-methylimidazole, giving chemists a route with few hazardous intermediates, but demanding careful separation and purification to strip away impurities that would otherwise poison downstream reactions or catalysis. The proper storage and labeling procedures always matter, with clear traceability in sourcing from reliable chemical suppliers. The compound joins a set of specialty materials under the HS Code 2933.99, covering heterocyclic compounds—this label ensures smooth global shipping and accurate customs classification for buyers and brokers alike
No discussion would feel complete without addressing chemical safety. 1-(Ethoxycarbonyl)Methyl-3-Methylimidazolium Chloride carries risks like other imidazolium salts. Direct skin or eye exposure may cause irritation, and inhaling the powdered form or dust calls for caution—lab experience taught me the importance of handling even seemingly mild salts under a fume hood. Chemists must avoid high heat, open flames, and improper mixing with incompatible reagents—especially strong oxidizers or bases that trigger decomposition, releasing toxic vapors or hazardous byproducts. Waste disposal has to run through correct solid or aqueous waste streams, following local regulations. SDS documentation signals environmental precautions, since runoff or unfiltered drainage into aquatic systems may affect sensitive organisms. Knowing the risks and following safe chemical hygiene keeps routines predictable and employees protected; anything less lets down the standards hard-won in years of industry and academia alike.
Specifications depend on end-use. Reactions demanding minuscule impurity levels force manufacturers to provide batch-specific purity data, often topping 98% by HPLC or titration. Moisture content, clarity, melting point, and chloride ion verification offer reassurance that what’s on the label matches what’s in the bottle. Each drum, flask, or sealed pouch carries batch numbers and certificates to support traceability. For storage, cool, dry, and dark environments lengthen shelf life and prevent product clumping or degradation. Buyers often request large volumes, whether in kilos or liters, for trial synthesis or bulk production—supply chain stability has grown vital in years scarred by pandemic interruptions and global logistics delays. Consistent quality underpins scale-up efforts, from bench research to full plant runs.
Anyone following green chemistry trends knows demand for benign alternatives to volatile organic solvents climbs every year. 1-(Ethoxycarbonyl)Methyl-3-Methylimidazolium Chloride checks many boxes, merging low volatility with high dissolution power and moderate toxicity. Tight controls on upstream raw material quality and careful synthesis help minimize environmental impact, supporting compliance efforts in major markets like the EU, U.S., and China. Responsible sourcing, packaging, and handling keep this compound in the game for advanced labs and forward-looking industries. It’s easy to overplay superlatives in specialty chemicals, but I’ve seen firsthand how a reliable supply unlocks innovation across disciplines—sometimes, relevance comes down to the granular work of characterization, verification, and pushing older, more hazardous alternatives to the sidelines. This chloride, with its distinctive structure and performance footprint, keeps proving its worth with each new application.
