N-(2-Ethoxyethyl)-Pyridinium Bromide is a specialty chemical that shows up in research and chemical synthesis labs across the world. Chemists working with organic salts benefit from its versatility and unique properties. The molecular formula comes out as C9H14BrNO, with a molar mass of around 244.12 g/mol. The compound's structure features a pyridinium ring carrying a positive charge balanced by a bromide anion. It derives its 'N-(2-ethoxyethyl)' identity from the ethoxyethyl group attached to the nitrogen atom in the ring, tweaking the electron density and influencing reactivity for a range of transformations. I have seen researchers leverage this combination of a polar structure and organic backbone to drive reactions or as a starting material in the synthesis of ionic liquids or functional materials.
Across shipments and laboratory benches, N-(2-Ethoxyethyl)-Pyridinium Bromide sits in solid form, most often showing up as translucent crystals, fine powder, flakes, or sometimes as small pearls, depending on how it's processed during crystallization. Typical colors run from white to off-white. The material holds a characteristic density, usually reported at about 1.31 g/cm3. These crystals can pack tightly, so bulk storage needs well-sealed containers to prevent clumping and absorption of ambient moisture, which tends to play havoc with some organic salts. Solubility reaches moderate to high in water and a range of polar solvents, making it relatively easy to handle for solution-based research or production. Practical experience points to its stable nature under ambient laboratory conditions, but prolonged exposure to light or humidity might degrade product quality, so storage guidelines matter.
In the lab, the three-dimensional structure of N-(2-Ethoxyethyl)-Pyridinium Bromide influences how it behaves. Its pyridinium ring, carrying a permanent positive charge, makes this compound a quaternary ammonium salt. The attached 2-ethoxyethyl group brings increased lipophilicity compared to simpler pyridinium salts, and the bulky bromide counterion plays a role in its crystallinity and melting behavior. Most suppliers specify a purity upwards of 98%, with controlled levels of moisture and trace impurities. The HS Code for customs and shipping falls under 2933.39, covering heterocyclic compounds with nitrogen hetero-atom(s) only. Shipping under this code requires suppliers to check regional regulations, as customs officials look for both product identity and documentation matching the chemical’s physical and safety profile.
Researchers and industrial chemists prize N-(2-Ethoxyethyl)-Pyridinium Bromide as a building block for organic synthesis and as a raw material for developing new ionic liquids, which see use in catalysis, electrochemistry, and green chemistry initiatives. Its reactive pyridinium center accepts numerous functionalizations, making it a candidate for tailor-made catalysts or extractants. The starting materials for its production often include pyridine, 2-ethoxyethyl bromide, and a suitable solvent, using controlled conditions to yield a clean, crystalline salt. The reproducibility of this synthesis and the material’s manageable handling properties contribute to its steady demand in research supply chains. In my experience, reliable suppliers disclose full batch records, test reports, and clear information on product morphology—a must for any chemist seeking reproducibility in fine chemical research.
Handling N-(2-Ethoxyethyl)-Pyridinium Bromide carries some risk, as with most chemicals in this class. The material’s MSDS identifies it as potentially harmful upon contact with skin, inhalation, or if swallowed, mandating gloves, eye protection, and work under proper ventilation. Story after story from the lab community emphasizes the importance of not underestimating solid-phase organic salts: they might not be dusty, but accidental ingestion or dust inhalation can cause acute irritation. The chemical does not readily burn but, upon decomposition, can release toxic fumes, so open flames or high temperatures near storage areas should be avoided. Spills call for dry cleanup with use of respiratory protection, followed by careful waste management. Without a clear waste stream, disposal can turn into a headache, so facilities that handle significant volumes arrange for professional hazardous waste pickup to meet environmental compliance. Direct handling without personal protective equipment opens up risk for dermatitis or respiratory issues, based on the compound’s irritant profile. Proper labeling, clear hazard signage, and documented training form the backbone of responsible use, a lesson learned in every chemical stockroom I’ve worked in.
Facilities working with N-(2-Ethoxyethyl)-Pyridinium Bromide adopt a dry, cool storage protocol, often using desiccators or tightly sealed high-density polyethylene bottles to prevent moisture uptake. For compounded forms such as solutions, compatibility with inert solvents like acetonitrile helps retain chemical integrity over time. Techs and researchers working with larger quantities store secondary containment trays below shelves and adopt spill-prevention strategies. In my experience, keeping inventory records up-to-date and rotating stock ensures no material sits past recommended shelf life, which can degrade performance in sensitive syntheses. For shipping, manufacturers emphasize proper labeling, with hazard classes and emergency contact details, according with local and international transport regulations. Workers managing the chemical in bulk often opt for face shields along with gloves to prevent accidental exposure during weighing and dispensing. At every stage, from raw material acceptance to ongoing storage, attention to labeling, environmental control, and staff awareness helps avoid incidents and supports compliance with health, safety, and regulatory expectations.
