1-Propyl-2,3-Methylimidazolium Iodide, often recognized in laboratories by its molecular formula C7H13IN2, belongs to the family of ionic liquids. Chemists and materials scientists value this compound for its unique structural characteristics and ease of use in many specialized processes. Structurally, it shows an imidazolium cation, substituted with a propyl group and two methyl groups at the 2 and 3 positions, paired with an iodide anion. Every time I see a bottle labeled with this name, I remember how mildly sweet and peculiar the crystalline solid appears compared to common salts. Its solid form, often found as flakes or a fine powder, sets it apart from others in the same category. Unlike volatile solvents, 1-Propyl-2,3-Methylimidazolium Iodide remains stable during phase transitions, which I have found quite helpful in controlled experiments and material syntheses.
The first thing that strikes a user about this material is its density and tactile nature. Typically listed with a density near 1.4 g/cm3, the compound doesn't dissolve like typical table salt, but rather forms a slick, clear solution in polar solvents. This makes it a favored choice for electrochemical research and organic synthesis. When poured from its storage container, the ioidide’s pearly, translucent flakes or pellets resist clumping, making handling straightforward and reducing the risk of accidental spills. As a solid, it's quite stable at room temperature and doesn’t absorb moisture from air as aggressively as other ionic liquids do. In solution, whether aqueous or organic, I find it blends smoothly and produces a clear, unified phase — a small detail, but one that smooths workflow in the lab. The crystalline nature under a microscope reminds me of other imidazolium salts, though the presence of the large iodide anion sets the optical behavior apart, reflecting a subtle shimmer. These features help distinguish it in mixtures or blends for those working in synthesis or material formulation.
Chemists pay special attention to the detailed formula: C7H13IN2. With a molecular weight measuring approximately 252.09 g/mol, it provides a heavy, reactive nucleophile center thanks to the iodide. This offers robust solubility in both polar and some non-polar solvents. It appears as a colorless or slightly yellow crystalline solid, depending on purity and exposure to air. Physical forms like solid flakes, powder, and even crystals can all represent legitimate and standard configurations for shipping and storage. In production batches, I’ve seen material standards set at ≥99% purity for research use, with specifications rigorously monitored using techniques like nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and mass spectrometry to verify composition. Measured in liters for solutions, or kilograms for solids, packaging adapts to project scale. Density, melting point, and water content rank as key batch identifiers, guiding everything from synthesis to waste handling. The HS Code for this chemical is 29252900, which aligns with international shipping requirements for organic bases containing nitrogen.
Every time someone uncaps a container of 1-Propyl-2,3-Methylimidazolium Iodide in my experience, it’s usually headed for applications in new solar cell technologies, advanced catalysts, or as a solvent in organic electronics. The ionic liquid’s ability to dissolve biomolecules, modulate electrochemical reactions, or deliver energy in specialized batteries comes from this stable, high-density molecular structure. The formulation of perovskite solar cells and other next-generation materials depends on such properties. This compound provides consistency where traditional solvents fall short, which lends an edge in research advancing energy storage. In my own work, I’ve seen product innovation leap forward with the right supporting materials like this one—no substitute comes close for some tasks. Products and industries relying on superior dielectric environments or gentle, non-volatile solvents have turned to raw materials like 1-Propyl-2,3-Methylimidazolium Iodide to tackle problems ranging from poor conductivity to short device lifespan. These breakthroughs don’t show up overnight; they arrive after enough experimentation with stable, predictable compounds that allow researchers to measure results without interference or degradation.
Every new bottle or sample comes with a clear warning: 1-Propyl-2,3-Methylimidazolium Iodide demands respect for safe handling. While not noxiously toxic in the way of strong acids or organophosphates, it presents hazards in concentrated form. I learned to avoid ingesting, inhaling, or allowing extended skin contact due to the risk of moderate irritancy and the potential to disrupt biological systems. Spillage calls for gloves and goggles; a simple respirator won’t go amiss for bulk amounts or poorly-ventilated spaces. The iodide ion, while useful in chemistry, can pose environmental and health risks if mismanaged, so disposal processes should not rely on casual down-the-drain methods. The chemical’s low volatility means it avoids becoming airborne under standard conditions, but it can spread through powders or dust if mishandled. Fire risk remains minimal, as it’s not flammable and doesn’t react violently with water, yet I always advise against storing near strong oxidants or acids to prevent unexpected decomposition. In the world of specialty chemicals, unwanted exposure costs more than just product loss—regulatory compliance mandates robust logs of material use, storage conditions, and waste disposal documentation, especially in academic or industrial settings. Everyone around lab benches or production lines benefits from regular safety refreshers and a well-stocked PPE area.
Process engineers and buyers watch the upstream market for availability of 1-Propyl-2,3-Methylimidazolium Iodide’s two essential raw materials: imidazole derivatives and iodoalkanes. Each comes with its peculiar difference in price, environmental scrutiny, and fabrication difficulty. Sometimes, global supply chains encounter bottlenecks, particularly with halogenated starting materials, which forces labs to plan for longer lead times and greater cost. Production quality pivots on maintaining molecular integrity; batch consistency has a direct link to performance in subsequent syntheses or applications. A careful supplier vetting process, calibration of analytical equipment, and close record-keeping help to prevent unwanted surprises in formulation or end-use. I can recall stretches where impurity spikes in the propyl chain or methyl group not only skewed experiment outcomes but also raised costs by wasting researcher time and expensive consumables. Lowering these risks means working closely with trusted sources, performing regular incoming QC, and monitoring for batch variances—steps that sound bureaucratic, but always make a difference on the ground.
For anyone working with 1-Propyl-2,3-Methylimidazolium Iodide, two basic practices stand out: keep samples dry and watch for degradation over long storage. I’ve learned that even best-in-class material can spoil from excess heat or humidity, so proper resealing and cool-room storage can stretch shelf life and keep reactivity intact. Preparing solutions in small batches lets you avoid unnecessary waste, and periodic re-testing of old stock saves troubleshooting headaches down the line. Bulk users such as battery makers or solar cell developers see their best results from strict adherence to purity specs and clear communication between engineering, procurement, and laboratory staff. Mistakes in handling or formulating tend to show up fast in these high-value applications. External audits, routine material analysis, and open feedback loops keep standards high and applications running smoothly. Waste minimization efforts benefit from solvent recovery, smart process controls, and staff training, which over time slash costs, cut liabilities, and protect workers and the environment. A commitment to quality drives innovation, but only where the raw materials meet expectations day in and day out, without drama or delay.
