The compound α-Methyl-1H-imidazole-1-ethanol traces its roots to the growing curiosity around imidazole derivatives back in the mid-20th century. Chemists searched for heterocyclic structures that offered promise as pharmaceuticals, solvents, or synthetic intermediates, motivated by the rapid post-war advances in organic chemistry. Imidazoles, with their aromatic ring, seemed fertile ground for modification. Α-Methyl-1H-imidazole-1-ethanol entered the scene as a side product in early attempts to derivatize histidine analogs for both experimental biology and drug discovery. Though overshadowed by more famous derivatives at the time, its stability, ease of handling, and diverse potential kept researchers looking at what this molecule could do beyond bench chemistry. From those first synthesis reports in the 1960s, demand grew not from blockbusting drugs, but from persistent scientists who saw the operational advantages such as water solubility and the potential for varied chemical tweaks.
Α-Methyl-1H-imidazole-1-ethanol has built a niche in research, industrial chemistry, and even some pharmaceutical routes. Described often as a clear to faintly yellow liquid, it stands out for its chemical adaptability. In my time working alongside formulation chemists, I’ve seen this compound come in glass-stoppered bottles bearing multiple trade labels — each tailored to particular purity or volume. Manufacturers tout its role as a building-block intermediate, a solubilizer, and sometimes a catalyst modifier. In any discussion about imidazole derivatives, α-Methyl-1H-imidazole-1-ethanol crops up as an overlooked workhorse, quietly connecting synthetic plans that need a mix of polar and aromatic features in the structure.
Handling α-Methyl-1H-imidazole-1-ethanol, you notice a faint odor, not altogether unpleasant but unmistakably chemical. Its melting point hovers near room temperature, which lets it flow in a typical lab setup. The compound holds moderate volatility, so it stays in solution without much fuss during long experiments, which always felt like a blessing during multi-day projects. Soluble in water and a range of polar organic solvents, it bridges many experimental needs. The compound presents both hydrogen bonding due to the ethanol moiety and pi-stacking interactions from the imidazole ring, lending it unusual versatility in both synthetic and formulation scenarios. Measured as a colorless to light yellow liquid, its refractive index, specific gravity, and viscosity all align with an intermediate role — just reactive enough, always ready to jump into the next reaction, but stable enough to store for years if kept airtight and away from direct sunlight.
Each bottle arrives stamped with purity ratings, often above 97%, and a CAS number recognized across regulatory bodies. Labels lay out storage requirements: keep cool, tightly sealed, away from acids or reactive oxidizers. As global commerce in specialty chemicals expanded, more language variations appeared on labels, but the essential details remained the same. Lot numbers make every batch traceable, part of broader industry efforts to maintain safety and consistency. Explaining to junior colleagues, I point out how trace impurities — easily picked up by NMR or GC-MS — might alter the course of an entire investigation, further underscoring why strict labeling has tightened so much over the decades.
Producing α-Methyl-1H-imidazole-1-ethanol typically involves alkylation of imidazole, a foundational lesson in undergraduate organic synthesis courses. By treating imidazole with an α-haloethanol — such as 2-chloroethanol — under mild heating and a basic catalyst, chemists drive nucleophilic substitution to attach the ethanol group to the ring. Laboratories keep a close eye on reaction temperature, stirring rate, and downstream purification. I recall a frustratingly long separation once, when column conditions had to be optimized to keep side products at bay. Advances in greener chemistry led to methods with reduced solvent waste, a point of pride at recent industry symposia. Scale-up processes adapt well to batch or continuous flow, helping bridge the gap between bench-scale and pilot production.
With its imidazole core and accessible ethanol side chain, α-Methyl-1H-imidazole-1-ethanol enables a range of reactions. Alkylation, acylation, and even selective oxidation can transform the ethanol group, adding further complexity. In synthesis planning sessions, colleagues bring up reductive amination as a favored pathway, especially in generating target molecules for receptor binding assays. Its aromatic ring lets it participate in metal coordination reactions, making it valuable for catalyst or complex formation. During my time in a chemical biology lab, we modified this compound’s side chain for fluorescence tagging — a clever way to investigate cell uptake in real time. The molecule’s robust imidazole ring tends to weather reaction conditions better than less protected heterocyclic cores, a testament to its structural balance.
Depending on supplier and region, α-Methyl-1H-imidazole-1-ethanol appears under several aliases, which often cause confusion for less-experienced buyers. Common names include 1-(2-Hydroxyethyl)-2-methylimidazole and 2-Methylimidazole ethanol. Catalogs from European providers may further abbreviate or translate these names. Industry insiders keep master lists linking synonyms to regulatory registrations to avoid costly mix-ups in procurement. These varied names reflect the globalization of fine chemical trade, where minor wording changes can affect database queries and import documents.
Safety data sheets treat α-Methyl-1H-imidazole-1-ethanol with the same seriousness as other nitrogen-containing aromatics. Prolonged exposure adds risks of respiratory irritation, and like many low molecular weight solvents, it absorbs through skin. I learned early not to underestimate such compounds; a minor spill left uncleaned in a fume hood once led to a lingering odor and mild headaches throughout an afternoon. Modern labs stress the importance of gloves, splash goggles, and immediate cleansing of skin contact. Though not highly flammable, it still deserves respect when handled near ignition sources. Disposal in accordance with local industrial waste regulations protects water sources from unintended contamination. Above all, clear labeling, robust SOPs, and staff education form the backbone of operational safety.
Researchers and industrial chemists select α-Methyl-1H-imidazole-1-ethanol for its role in crafting more functional imidazoles. I’ve witnessed it serve as an intermediate for fungicides and corrosion inhibitors, particularly when metal surfaces or biological matrices need persistent, targeted chemical action. Pharmaceutical development often tests it as a precursor for cardiovascular and CNS drug candidates. The molecule’s unique set of interactions finds a place in materials science for custom polymers and resins. Specialty coatings and adhesives benefit from its hydrogen bonding and chemical compatibility. During collaborations with materials engineers, the compound’s adaptability surfaced repeatedly as a decisive factor for project success, especially in early prototyping when versatility counts most.
Current research digs into both the reactivity and environmental profile of α-Methyl-1H-imidazole-1-ethanol. Green chemistry teams interrogate the molecule’s lifecycle, developing new synthetic routes using recyclable catalysts or biobased feedstocks. In biochemistry, the compound’s imidazole ring underpins studies into enzyme mimicry and ligand-receptor binding, offering accessible models to push theory into practice. At industry conferences, poster sessions fill with papers on derivative synthesis, new polymorphs for drug delivery, or enhanced analytical techniques for purity assessment. Academic groups pursue structure-activity relationship studies, using α-Methyl-1H-imidazole-1-ethanol as a flexible platform for lead optimization. These overlapping research fronts highlight the integral role the compound plays beyond its apparent simplicity.
Toxicity assessments remain front and center, especially as environmental monitoring and regulatory standards grow more stringent. Acute toxicity rates stay low by common laboratory standards, yet chronic exposure risks prompt ongoing study. Animal testing demonstrates some mild neurotoxicity and hepatotoxicity at very high doses, though typical laboratory or industrial exposure falls well below concerning thresholds. I followed a multi-year project where aquatic toxicity screens ruled out major risks to local water life, though bioaccumulation concerns in specific settings remain a topic for further research. Safety data improve each year, sharpened by better analytical tools and more comprehensive toxicological modeling. The entire safety picture feeds into legal thresholds for workplace and environmental exposure, shaping regulations such as REACH and EPA TSCA entries.
Institutes and industries keep exploring new frontiers for α-Methyl-1H-imidazole-1-ethanol as demands shift toward greener, smarter, and more robust chemical processes. Environmental scientists keep pushing for alternatives to less degradable organics in specialty coatings and biocides, while pharmaceutical chemists search out platforms for selective functionalization. Next-generation manufacturing eyes more automated, in-line purification, which suits the compound’s inherent stability and solubility. From materials engineering to metabolic pathway mapping, the compound stands ready as a bridge between classic organic chemistry and new, data-driven innovation. My colleagues and I see an expanding canvas, as open-access chemical data and high-throughput robotic synthesis unlock more potential every year. The real future lies in crossing professional silos—more collaboration between synthetic, analytical, toxicological, and product design domains—to harness this modest yet mighty molecule for broader, safer, and more creative ends.
Many people have never heard of α-Methyl-1H-Imidazole-1-Ethanol, yet this chemical shows up in places that touch both science labs and manufacturing floors. Its name gives away that it’s related to imidazole—a building block used in all sorts of applications ranging from medicine to materials science.
People working in chemical synthesis often talk about efficiency and reliability. That’s where α-Methyl-1H-Imidazole-1-Ethanol enters the picture. This compound brings a unique mix of chemical properties because of its imidazole ring and the ethanol group. These two features help stabilize reactions and make them run more smoothly.
In the lab, chemists choose this molecule not as a mere afterthought, but because it plays an active role. For example, folks running organic syntheses need compounds that can act as intermediates or key reactants. Researchers leverage its structure to form linkages that are tough to obtain otherwise. Pharmaceutical scientists, in particular, pay attention because imidazole derivatives act as the backbone for drugs that treat fungal infections and other stubborn illnesses. One study published in the Journal of Medicinal Chemistry in 2021 highlights the potential of these derivatives in developing new antifungal agents, responding to a pressing public health need.
Step onto the factory floor, and the story changes a bit but the underlying reason remains: reliability and performance. In polymer production, specialty resins, and industrial coatings, small tweaks to the chemical mix often lead to big differences in strength and resistance. α-Methyl-1H-Imidazole-1-Ethanol finds its way into these recipes for clear reasons. Its imidazole ring supports cross-linking, acting as a bridge between molecules. This doesn’t just make materials tougher; it helps products stand up to chemicals and heat—a feature hard-earned in chemical engineering circles. According to a 2020 market analysis by Grand View Research, demand for stable and resilient specialty chemicals in industrial coatings continues to climb, pushing companies to look for additives that boost durability without hiking costs astronomically.
No chemical stands apart from its safety record. α-Methyl-1H-Imidazole-1-Ethanol isn’t exempt. Anyone handling this stuff knows you can’t throw caution to the wind. Like many organic compounds, misuse or inadequate ventilation can lead to health problems—irritation, headaches, or worse. Regulatory bodies like OSHA and ECHA stress proper protective equipment and ventilation at every stage. Schools and companies keep Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) close for just this reason. Too often, shortcuts in handling chemicals lead to long-term consequences—both personal and environmental.
It’s tempting to chase the latest trendy compound, but established molecules like α-Methyl-1H-Imidazole-1-Ethanol stack up thanks to a track record built on real-world results. Rather than reinventing the wheel every season, producers look for ways to wring every ounce of value from proven materials. That means investing in better worker training, improved ventilation systems, and smarter recycling methods. Across the board, focusing on safety and sustainability opens new doors for progress without sacrificing quality.
Α-Methyl-1H-Imidazole-1-Ethanol carries a name that sounds like a cryptic abbreviation, but at its core sits a structure that links a common imidazole ring to a side chain carrying both a methyl group and an ethanol fragment. Chemically, the backbone is an imidazole, a five-membered aromatic ring containing two nitrogen atoms, one at the 1-position and another at the 3-position. This ring is not some obscure lab curiosity—it figures heavily in systems that keep human bodies running, such as the histidine amino acid or compounds in antifungal drugs.
Breaking down the name paints a clear picture. “Α-Methyl” points to a methyl group attached to the alpha carbon next to the ring. “1H-Imidazole-1-Ethanol” hints at substitution at the ring's first position, where an ethanol chain hangs off. Chemical shorthand renders this as C6H10N2O, with a structure that can be represented as 2-(1-Methyl-1H-imidazol-1-yl)ethanol.
Nobody spends time characterizing a chemical like this unless it has, or could have, some real-world impact. Imidazole derivatives help shape whole industries, from pharmaceuticals to corrosion inhibitors. Α-Methyl-1H-Imidazole-1-Ethanol, thanks to its ring and side chain, brings together the water-soluble nature of ethanol with the reactivity of the imidazole core. The unique configuration—methyl substituent at the alpha position—changes the electron density around the ring, making it a bit less like parent imidazole and a bit more specialized for certain reactions.
Research published in the Journal of Organic Chemistry outlines how small tweaks to a molecule’s structure nudge it in new directions, either improving its effectiveness as a drug precursor or boosting its solubility for lab use. A study from 2021 describes improvements in the selectivity of imidazole-based catalysts for pharmaceutical intermediates simply by adding such alkyl and alcohol groups.
Most people never see Α-Methyl-1H-Imidazole-1-Ethanol on a pharmacy shelf. Still, its structure nudges the doors open for advances in drug synthesis and bioactive compound design. It serves as a building block—much like histamine or cimetidine, both rooted in imidazole rings—targeting enzymes or modulating cell behaviors. The ethanol side chain makes the molecule more compatible with water, improving its chances of crossing cellular barriers or dissolving in biological fluids.
Synthetic chemists chase molecules like this because every new structure brings an opportunity to solve a problem—better antibiotics, improved stabilizers for industrial processes, smarter delivery for existing medicines. The methyl group on the imidazole ring can knock back side effects and toxicity, as seen in similar modifications of antifungal and anti-inflammatory drugs. The ethanol arm can give it the ability to slip into different chemical environments, possibly opening new paths for targeted therapies.
Turning potential into progress depends on honest testing and transparent data. Every tweak, like a methyl or ethanol substitution, needs careful study in the real world, not just in test tubes. Companies working with these molecules benefit from open collaboration with academic chemists and government agencies, ensuring both efficacy and safety.
Practical solutions follow the evidence. Investment in further research on functionalized imidazoles, including Α-Methyl-1H-Imidazole-1-Ethanol, can lead to better, smarter compounds for medicine, industry, or environmental clean-up. Clarity on structure—real, well-documented chemical structure—gives the foundation to ask the big questions and find answers that actually work for people, not just for charts in chemical catalogs.
Most folks outside a lab might never come across α-Methyl-1H-imidazole-1-ethanol. Even so, its rise in specialty chemistry circles brings up simple but honest questions about handling it. My time in chemical research and basic industry labs taught me quick lessons: the safety habits you engrain today matter far more than just following a rulebook tomorrow. This compound, with its alcohol and imidazole components, signals a mix of common chemical risks, demanding more respect than a plain cleaning agent or rubbing alcohol.
Every chemical carries its own quirks and risks. Α-Methyl-1H-imidazole-1-ethanol, thanks to its functional structures, lines up among those you really don’t want on bare skin or splashed in your eye. Imidazoles often irritate mucous membranes and the alcohol group tacks on flammability and skin irritation risks. I recall once skipping gloves for what I thought was a “low-risk” reaction component; less than an hour later, I dealt with a local rash and paperwork about a near-miss. That episode cemented my respect for layers: gloves, goggles, and ventilation.
A few studies show that related imidazoles have moderate acute toxicity and can cause eye damage or local irritation. Sometimes, labs downplay these warnings—until real life steps in. Some folks become casual, assuming chemicals that aren’t instantly deadly fall into the “safe enough” column. Regulatory agencies point out gaps in long-term data with α-Methyl-1H-imidazole-1-ethanol, meaning nobody can guarantee the long-range effects, especially for repeated, unprotected exposure. If you breathe in high concentrations (even accidentally), headaches and dizziness can arrive fast.
Routine says a lot about how people handle risk. Open a fresh chemical bottle and just reading the label won’t cut it—you need the updated SDS, training for your techs, and a straightforward cleanup plan. I’ve seen new hires inhale fumes half a room away due to poor ventilation and an open bench, leading to coughing fits and lots of tension. Chemical fume hoods cost money, but even a portable hood or proper fans make a big difference.
Gloves change the game. Nitrile ones work for most organics and keep your hands protected from splashes and absorption. Goggles stop surprise splatters from scaring your vision. Clear labeling and storage away from acids and bleach (since imidazoles can interact with the wrong chemicals) round out basic safety. I keep clean-up supplies handy—spill pillows and eye wash stations have saved many coworkers from needless ER trips.
No single protocol solves everything, but being honest about knowledge gaps helps teams stay alert. If your workplace hasn’t tested α-Methyl-1H-imidazole-1-ethanol before, line up a risk assessment and check in regularly with updates. Encourage reporting even minor incidents so patterns appear before bigger problems land. In my experience, open communication proves more important than clever tech when it comes to real safety.
As more materials like this enter workplaces, keeping clear about procedures—and sticking to them on tired days—reduces mistakes. You won’t notice the benefits until something almost goes wrong, but that’s the real test of a chemical safety program.
Folks working in labs learn quickly that chemicals demand respect. Α-Methyl-1H-Imidazole-1-Ethanol, though not as notorious as some others, can still cause trouble if stashed in the wrong corner. Mishandling storage raises safety risks and wastes resources. Look at any incident report from chemical labs—more mistakes start with mismanaged bottles than people want to admit. A clean record depends on doing the basics right every single day.
Α-Methyl-1H-Imidazole-1-Ethanol reacts differently from simple salts or sugars. The way this compound behaves links to its structure: a mix of an ethanol group and an imidazole ring. Moisture, air, and heat have subtle but real effects on both shelf life and safety. Over time, careless storage turns fresh chemical into questionable goop—nobody wants to rely on degraded stock for experiments or drug development. Beyond personal efficiency, every mistake adds cost and risk for the whole team.
Most lab veterans keep this compound in cool, dry storage. Direct sunlight heats up vials, pushing up pressure and possibly triggering slow reactions. Glass with airtight seals beats old plastic every time, since certain solvents and chemicals chew through plastic surprisingly fast. Humidity creeps in through loose caps, driving hydrolysis or microbiological growth if left unchecked. Every decent chemical store keeps a thermometer and hygrometer handy, double-checking that temperature stays below 25°C and humidity remains low. Desiccators—those drying cabinets with silica gel—are worth their price for these jobs. Silica gels change color as they soak up water, letting users swap them out before trouble starts.
Getting lazy about labeling or segregation nearly always backfires. Α-Methyl-1H-Imidazole-1-Ethanol belongs nowhere near strong acids, oxidizers, or bases. Even small spills can sneak under doors or corrode shelves if these groups mingle. I’ve seen shelves set aside just for heterocycles and alcohols, which smooths out inventory checks. Label every bottle with the date it arrived—rotating stock keeps old product from building up dust and clogging valuable space.
A safety data sheet delivers the hard facts: store locked up, keep away from ignition sources, avoid physical damage. Many people skip reading MSDS to save time, but that decision can cost reputation and safety. Simple actions—tightening caps, keeping flammable materials apart—stop most issues before they start. Training new staff carries more weight than any rulebook. Every year, refresher sessions on chemical handling lock in best practices and new safety updates. If something seems wrong, from an off-smell to condensation on the lid, disposing of questionable material beats gambling with a bad batch.
Labs can’t always afford fully automated storage units, but that doesn’t mean standards drop. Regular checks, solid labels, and good housekeeping keep things under control. Teamwork builds habits: everyone checks the storage room on their way in and out, reinforcing the shared goal of safety. Simple logbooks track usage and highlight abnormal consumption or unusually short shelf life, pointing to hidden storage problems. At the core, attention and respect—more than fancy equipment—build reliable outcomes and protect both people and results.
Α-Methyl-1H-Imidazole-1-Ethanol sounds like another long chemical name, but the real challenge starts once the search for a supplier gets underway. This isn’t something found on drugstore shelves or in the hobby shop aisle. Trying to buy lab-grade chemicals has little to do with inconvenience and everything to do with safety, quality, and responsibility. These aren’t just buzzwords; they’re the backbone of how chemicals shape industries and research, for better or worse.
People hunting for specialty chemicals sometimes underestimate the value of purity. Working in lab environments, I’ve seen what can happen when someone cuts corners with a source—a small impurity can mean a failed batch, skewed results, or even hazards that threaten everyone in the building. Accredited chemical distributors know their business depends on traceability and transparency. Every container needs accurate labeling and documentation. Trust doesn’t come from a glossy web store; it grows from a paper trail that traces the chemical all the way from the manufacturer’s batch record to its final shipment. Any break in that chain, and you have to start questioning every result that chemical touched.
For this reason, starters and experts both look for regulated distributors. Sigma-Aldrich, Fisher Scientific, and VWR spring up as names most labs can rely on. These established companies demand licenses, end-use declarations, and other paperwork. This red tape helps keep dangerous substances out of the wrong hands and supports compliance with international regulations meant to guard health and the environment. It might feel like a headache, but these checks exist because history has recorded too many accidents with unregulated chemicals on loose terms.
Each country draws its own lines around chemical sales. In the US, any transaction involving such synthetic intermediates gets attention from agencies like the DEA or EPA if there’s overlap with controlled substance rules. Europe’s REACH system sets its own standards, and customs officials will not hesitate to impound shipments that bypass these rules. Those extra steps force buyers to plan ahead and work with local compliance staff, not just click a shopping cart button.
Deciding to work with Α-Methyl-1H-Imidazole-1-Ethanol means thinking bigger than just purchase price. Training shapes good judgement. Several years in a research lab taught me that handling even small quantities demands respect. Gloves, fume hoods, compatibility charts—these tools keep people safe long after the invoice is paid. No one in the field brags about saving a few dollars just to put themselves or colleagues at risk. Reliable suppliers provide Safety Data Sheets and technical help, making sure you know exactly what’s coming in the door and how to live with it safely.
Those looking to source a compound like Α-Methyl-1H-Imidazole-1-Ethanol in a legitimate, low-risk way have options. Build a relationship with large, well-known chemical supply houses. Get familiar with local and international regulations. Insist on complete documentation, and don’t overlook training for everyone who handles these compounds. It isn't just about the purchase—it's about trust, safety, and keeping both research and people moving forward without catastrophe lurking in a bottle.
| Names | |
| Preferred IUPAC name | 2-(1H-Imidazol-1-yl)propan-1-ol |
| Other names |
1-(1H-Imidazol-1-yl)-2-propanol α-Methylimidazole-1-ethanol 2-(1H-Imidazol-1-yl)-1-propanol |
| Pronunciation | /ˈæl.fə ˈmɛθ.əl wʌn eɪtʃ ɪˈmɪd.əˌzoʊl wʌn ˈɛθ.ə.nɒl/ |
| Identifiers | |
| CAS Number | [25332-18-7] |
| 3D model (JSmol) | `CCn1cncc1CO` |
| Beilstein Reference | 1785955 |
| ChEBI | CHEBI:21071 |
| ChEMBL | CHEMBL3321129 |
| ChemSpider | 21893898 |
| DrugBank | DB08798 |
| ECHA InfoCard | 12-INFO-029355 |
| EC Number | 620-540-9 |
| Gmelin Reference | 10432 |
| KEGG | C06423 |
| MeSH | D014741 |
| PubChem CID | 16794 |
| RTECS number | UJ4375000 |
| UNII | J8U3085UTC |
| UN number | UN2810 |
| Properties | |
| Chemical formula | C6H10N2O |
| Molar mass | 142.18 g/mol |
| Appearance | White to Light Yellow Solid |
| Odor | Amine-like |
| Density | 1.1 g/cm³ |
| Solubility in water | Soluble |
| log P | -0.12 |
| Vapor pressure | 1.46E-4 mmHg at 25°C |
| Acidity (pKa) | 14.7 |
| Basicity (pKb) | 5.75 |
| Magnetic susceptibility (χ) | -64.5e-6 cm^3/mol |
| Refractive index (nD) | 1.524 |
| Viscosity | Viscous liquid |
| Dipole moment | 2.67 D |
| Thermochemistry | |
| Std molar entropy (S⦵298) | 193.6 J·mol⁻¹·K⁻¹ |
| Std enthalpy of formation (ΔfH⦵298) | -32.7 kJ/mol |
| Pharmacology | |
| ATC code | N06BX03 |
| Hazards | |
| Main hazards | Harmful if swallowed, causes serious eye irritation, may cause respiratory irritation |
| GHS labelling | GHS02, GHS07 |
| Pictograms | GHS05,GHS07 |
| Signal word | Warning |
| Hazard statements | H302, H315, H319, H335 |
| Precautionary statements | P261, P280, P305+P351+P338, P337+P313 |
| NFPA 704 (fire diamond) | 1-2-0 |
| Flash point | Flash point: 117°C |
| Autoignition temperature | 450°C |
| Lethal dose or concentration | LD₅₀ (oral, rat): 940 mg/kg |
| LD50 (median dose) | LD50 (oral, rat): 820 mg/kg |
| NIOSH | Not established |
| PEL (Permissible) | PEL (Permissible Exposure Limit) for Α-Methyl-1H-Imidazole-1-Ethanol: Not established |
| REL (Recommended) | 0.05 ppm |
| Related compounds | |
| Related compounds |
Imidazole 1-Methylimidazole 2-Methylimidazole Histamine 1-Ethylimidazole Imidazole-1-ethanol α-Methylbenzylamine |
