1-Ethyl-3-Methylimidazolium Dihydrogen Phosphate, often called [EMIM][H2PO4], stands out among ionic liquids for its balance of physical stability and versatile chemical behavior. Looking at this compound under normal conditions, it comes as a pale, colorless, or yellowish solid or viscous liquid. Some suppliers break it down into flakes or fine powder, others offer pearl-like granules, but sometimes you might see it as a nearly clear liquid. The specific structure, a fused imidazole ring bearing ethyl and methyl groups with a dihydrogen phosphate counterion, creates unique material properties, especially for those who want both physical and chemical reliability.
Chemists who deal with ionic liquids gravitate toward 1-Ethyl-3-Methylimidazolium Dihydrogen Phosphate for a reason: its molecular formula, C6H13N2O4P, and molecular weight, roughly 208.15 g/mol, offer a stable backbone. The cationic part sits anchored in the imidazole framework, making it less volatile, while the dihydrogen phosphate completes the material’s ionic character. This arrangement helps the chemical maintain a moderate melting point, and it doesn’t evaporate as water does, which matters for tasks requiring high thermal stability. People in the field who use these chemicals often need data that’s grounded and precise—knowing its formula, how it crystallizes, even how it behaves under light or heat, all provides peace of mind when handling the material in the lab or in scale-up conditions.
Most users reach first for specifications. 1-Ethyl-3-Methylimidazolium Dihydrogen Phosphate rarely disappoints: density ranges from about 1.25 to 1.35 g/cm³ at room temperature, though it nudges higher if the temperature dips. In the lab, its solid or liquid state depends on humidity and ambient conditions. The substance dissolves well in water and, less commonly, some polar organics, which grants process engineers and chemists flexibility. For those who work with solutions, the density per liter offers guidance, especially when transferring or preparing stock solutions in glassware. Where purity counts, it often ships as a high-grade raw material, though for more cost-sensitive uses, technical grade can suffice.
Manufacturers and research groups turn to this material for tasks that demand green chemistry, catalysis, electrochemistry, and sometimes advanced battery research. Its ionic character gives it a role in separating chemicals or acting as a supporting electrolyte. Some teams use it in catalysis to lower reaction temperatures or speed up difficult chemistry. Because it carries a moderate but manageable hazard profile—less toxic than many conventional solvents, but potentially harmful if mishandled—it carves out a spot in more sustainable process routes. Not every compound manages that balancing act.
At the customs border, classification matters. The Harmonized System Code (HS Code) tied to organic chemicals or ionic liquids applies here: most commonly, 2933.19.00, which covers heterocyclic compounds. Regulations vary by country, but knowing the code smooths the process for both exporter and recipient. The documentation trail, especially on international shipments, tracks the material’s hazardous classification—workers and customs officers need this for safe storage, handling, and compliance with safety rules. Regulations push everyone to keep tight handling protocols, not just for trade friction but for people’s health.
Safety with chemicals comes from understanding, not just memorizing hazard labels. 1-Ethyl-3-Methylimidazolium Dihydrogen Phosphate falls in a middle ground: not benign, but less risky than lots of volatile organic compounds. Touch or skin exposure can cause mild irritation, and accidental ingestion, though unlikely in a well-managed workspace, brings risks. Inhalation during handling powder or dust isn’t common, but adequate ventilation is a must. For those working on the lab bench, basic PPE—gloves, goggles, lab coats—covers most direct dangers. Disposal follows local hazardous waste regulations, as ionic liquids can linger in the environment and disrupt water systems. Even trace release in effluent draws attention from inspectors and environmental teams because residue builds up in unexpected places.
Sourcing always shapes the backstory for specialty chemicals. The imidazole base and phosphate components both draw from established supply chains, but rapid growth in green chemistry puts strains on consistency and purity. That shows up in the price and in periodic quality swings. Production teams feel pressure to certify raw materials as free of persistent toxins and to document the origins for compliance. Buyers ask about trace metals and byproducts—not just out of due diligence but because regulatory and environmental standards keep tightening. When bottlenecks appear, process engineers hunt for alternatives or even make small-batch supply in-house, carving time away from research to guarantee quality and avoid imported contaminants.
People on the ground, whether chemists or EHS officers, see first-hand the importance of better labeling and clearer storage protocols. One strong step toward safer workplaces means pushing for supplier data sheets that share real-world case studies on incidents, not just blanket caution. Research funds channeled into alternative ionic liquids keep the competition fierce, which can yield greener, less hazardous options over time. In academic and industrial settings, training isn’t just once a year. Supervisors integrate chemical handling into day-to-day practices, and share stories of mishandling—near-misses and misunderstandings, not just theoretical risks. Open access to reliable incident databases, and practical tips, moves the whole chemical workforce toward safer, more knowledgeable handling of raw materials and finished products alike.
