1-Ethoxyethyl-3-methylimidazolium bromide stands out as a specialized chemical compound, falling into the class known as ionic liquids. With a structure based on the imidazolium ring, it features an ethoxyethyl group linked to the nitrogen, and a methyl substitution at a neighboring carbon atom. The bromide anion partners with the organic cation, shaping the compound’s properties. This particular molecule, with the molecular formula C8H15BrN2O, has earned a spot in several laboratory and industrial applications due to its versatility. Across research and production settings, workers encounter this substance in forms such as powder, solid flakes, or even crystals, depending on the storage conditions and purity level. KS Code 2934999090 covers many customs declarations for such compounds, offering important context for those in import, export, or compliance work.
This compound manifests as a highly pure, solid material at room temperature. Its specific density ranges from 1.1 to 1.3 g/cm³, depending on hydration or trace solvent presence. Because of its ionic nature, it absorbs moisture from the environment (hygroscopic), so storage often involves tightly-sealed bottles away from open air. The solid sometimes forms pearly or crystalline particles, and with enough moisture, a slurry or even a viscous liquid may develop. Molecular weight clocks in at roughly 251.12 g/mol. Many researchers choose it for the impressive thermal stability and broad liquidus range—unlike traditional organic solvents, the substance resists evaporation and does not ignite easily, making it safer for sensitive applications that demand careful control of temperature and pressure. Upon gentle heating, it transforms to a free-flowing liquid. Transparency in reporting these specifications helps companies compare material quality lot to lot, avoiding any unexpected variance in physical state that might confuse new users.
The backbone of 1-ethoxyethyl-3-methylimidazolium bromide features a five-membered aromatic imidazolium ring, substituted by a methyl group and an ethoxyethyl chain. Bromide, a relatively large, soft anion, associates via electrostatic attraction. The molecular structure means high polarity, so compatibility with a broad selection of polar and non-polar reagents emerges as a practical benefit. This structure brings solubility in common polar solvents while showing limited volatility. These characteristics push researchers and technicians to use the compound in catalysis, separation sciences, and advanced material syntheses, where control of solubility, melting point, and chemical compatibility matter for product consistency and performance.
Handling any chemical safely always starts with respect for both its listed and potential hazards. Like many ionic liquids, 1-ethoxyethyl-3-methylimidazolium bromide can present irritant and harmful effects on skin and eyes, and significant ingestion or inhalation accidents may require medical attention. Material data sheets explain these hazards: the compound may not be highly volatile, but dust or powder can reach eyes easily. Direct contact often reddens or dries skin. Gloves, goggles, and dust masks or particle respirators offer straightforward protection. Proper ventilation removes the risk of minor airborne particulates. Fire does not catch easily in this category of chemicals, but routine lab safety—clear labeling, segregated storage, closed containers—helps prevent contamination and unplanned reactions. Waste usually classifies as hazardous, so professionals benefit from following local waste disposal laws. Organizations often turn to dedicated chemical disposal services instead of regular municipal waste channels. For emergency response, the use of eyewash stations, chemical-spill protocols, and regular hazard drills enhances workplace preparedness.
Raw materials for production start with ethoxyethyl halides, methylimidazole, and hydrobromic acid, using relatively efficient and scalable routes. Chemists appreciate the possibility to selectively tune both the alkyl chain length and the anion, allowing companies to optimize properties such as viscosity, melting point, and toxicity. This adaptability supports specialized applications. In the field of organic synthesis, for instance, the compound provides non-volatile alternatives to volatile organic solvents, reducing fire risk and toxic exposure. Teams working on batteries, electrochemical devices, or advanced separation technology use the ionic liquid to improve conductivity, minimize unwanted evaporation, and support sustainable, closed-loop process design. Many experts keep inventory of this and related imidazolium bromides, given their proven reliability as reaction media or phase-transfer catalysts in specialty organic manufacturing, as well as use in academic inquiries that deepen our understanding of solvation, ion exchange, and advanced materials development.
Suppliers typically deliver 1-ethoxyethyl-3-methylimidazolium bromide as a high-purity, free-flowing crystalline powder or as small flakes or pearls. Well-prepared material offers clear technical data sheets, noting purity thresholds, residual moisture content (often below 1%), and clear descriptions of packaging. Quantities can range from laboratory vials to kilogram lots for pilot or industrial use, mirroring the needs of the researcher or manufacturing chemist. This flexibility, along with key technical metrics—density, melting point, assay, and trace impurity content—supports process planning and accurate scale-up. High-purity samples improve reproducibility; users can avoid costly surprises by communicating exact needs and verifying specification details at the time of order. Careful review of shipment records and certification sheets builds confidence and satisfies regulatory obligation, especially for companies working in regulated industries or markets that demand chemical traceability from raw material through finished goods.
The growing attention on environmental and worker health concerns places compounds like 1-ethoxyethyl-3-methylimidazolium bromide in the spotlight. Less volatility means reduced atmospheric emissions in the lab and on the factory floor. At the same time, researchers keep a close eye on long-term persistence in water and soil, focusing on lifecycle analysis and alternative disposal routes that avert environmental accumulation. By documenting the safe synthesis, application, and cleanup of this chemical, industry and academia move toward greener and more sustainable laboratory and industrial practices. Investing in improved recycling, real-time monitoring of process streams, and new research into less persistent variants can reduce potential impact, increase worker safety, and create opportunities for cleaner technology across sectors such as pharmaceuticals, green chemistry, and high-tech manufacturing.
