1-Ethyl-3-Methylimidazolium Dicyanamide represents one of the well-known ionic liquids, drawing interest from chemists and engineers because of its modern profile. This salt-like material arrives in different states — flakes, powders, crystals, pearls, and liquid forms all exist, shifting with temperature and handling. Its molecular structure provides a unique avenue for tackling emerging needs in solvent science, electrochemistry, and catalysis. Built on an imidazolium cation paired with a dicyanamide anion, the material demonstrates an ability to dissolve a wide variety of compounds, whether organic or inorganic, which speaks directly to its continued uptake in chemical research and the lab.
Quality control for 1-Ethyl-3-Methylimidazolium Dicyanamide starts with its physical and chemical consistency. Reliable suppliers pay close attention to raw material sources and production techniques. The compound appears most commonly in pure white to off-white solid forms at room temperature, though specialized requirements sometimes bring liquid or semi-solid products. Each form serves a specific industrial role. The crystal structure features a positively charged imidazolium ring—ethyl and methyl branches anchor the ring, while the dicyanamide component rounds out the molecular features, described by the formula C8H11N5. The purity typically exceeds 98%, and water content below 0.5% is a must for performance-focused applications. Technical documents confirm specific gravity values and report melting points around 60-70°C, offering a reliable guide for those who work with thermal processes or sensor development.
Handling 1-Ethyl-3-Methylimidazolium Dicyanamide goes beyond basic density data. Its high polarity and ionic nature grant the substance unusual solubilizing power. As a liquid at slightly elevated temperatures, its density usually ranges from 1.05 to 1.15 g/cm³, putting it in line with many other ionic liquids. Flakes and powders can appear dry yet still absorb moisture if not cared for during storage. Experience shows lab workers benefit from packaging in airtight, inert containers—exposure to air or water often leads to product clumping and may alter chemical efficiency. In my own experiments, accidental moisture ingress forced more than one synthesis redo, costing both time and materials. Its thermal stability under 200-250°C opens use in reaction settings deemed off-limits to older, more volatile solvents.
As with many advanced materials, 1-Ethyl-3-Methylimidazolium Dicyanamide demands caution. The chemical’s low vapor pressure does mean those working near open containers avoid breathing in fumes, but the real concern lies in skin and eye contact. Dicyanamide salts can be irritating, and persistent exposure might cause damage. Inhalation of dust or aerosols, though rare in typical lab settings, should be avoided completely. Gloves, eye protection, and adequate fume hood operation cover most risks. Larger volumes, as might be seen in pilot plants or industrial testing, raise the stakes for safe containment and disposal. Waste solutions need collection for appropriate chemical treatment, never direct disposal down the drain. Regulatory codes like the HS Code 2926909090 support global tracking, and anyone responsible for warehousing or import/export documentation needs to get this right to avoid legal slowdowns. My years spent in laboratory procurement taught me that one failed customs clearance due to mislabeling can stall projects for months.
The growing suite of uses for 1-Ethyl-3-Methylimidazolium Dicyanamide covers battery electrolytes, high-efficiency solvents, and research into greener chemical synthesis. In our drive for safer, less hazardous alternatives to standard volatile organic compounds, ionic liquids like this one fill a gap left by outdated materials. Their tunable properties let researchers and industries address catalytic reactions and extractions with fewer safety trade-offs, provided all guidelines for safe storage and use are respected. While the costs run above those of older solvents, the safety profile, stability, and raw material renewability underpin its popularity in specialty chemical circles. For any team working to minimize hazardous waste streams or searching for flexible, material solutions that can be adjusted on a molecular level, this compound stands as a hard-earned tool rather than just another entry on a product list.
