2-Butyl-4-Chloro-5-Formylimidazole belongs to the imidazole family, a group of nitrogen-containing heterocyclic aromatic compounds. Chemically, it carries the butyl group at position 2, a chlorine atom at position 4, and a formyl group (-CHO) at position 5 on the imidazole ring. The molecular formula is C8H11ClN2O, underscoring its moderate size for an organic specialty chemical. This material’s structure contributes directly to its reactivity and range of uses: it balances hydrophobicity from the butyl group with polar sites from the nitrogen and formyl moieties, bridging the gap between oil-soluble and water-reactive characteristics.
2-Butyl-4-Chloro-5-Formylimidazole typically appears as solid flakes or fine powder at ambient temperature. Sometimes, it comes in crystalline form, showing a color from off-white to faint yellow, which indicates slight impurities or batch-to-batch variability but does not generally impact its intended use. This chemical’s density falls near 1.2 g/cm³, aligning with other small organohalide-organonitrogens. A melting point ranging between 87–92°C suggests moderate thermal stability for process handling. Solubility leans toward organic solvents. In practical laboratory or industry settings, the compound dissolves well in dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), methanol, and acetonitrile. Water solubility stays low, shaped by the nonpolar butyl group.
The presence of a chlorine atom and a formyl group on the imidazole ring directly shapes reactivity, making the aldehyde carbon especially prone to nucleophilic addition in synthesis pipelines. The butyl group brings lipophilic qualities often desired during modifications or when embedding this compound into larger molecular scaffolds. In structure-based applications, the molecule’s unique substitutions help in ligand identification studies, pharmaceutical intermediates, or agrochemical design. The HS Code for this chemical most commonly used in international trade is 2933299090, categorized under heterocyclic compounds with nitrogen hetero-atom(s) only. Specifying raw materials by both the common name and HS Code simplifies procurement and regulatory work, especially during cross-border transport or customs declarations.
Technical datasheets typically request purity above 98%, as trace halogenated side-products or polymers impact downstream process reliability. Lot-specific documentation often lists water content, assessed by Karl Fischer titration, because excess moisture risks unwanted side-reactions or hydrolysis. Particle size ranges from coarse flakes to micro-pearls or fine powders, and users should determine the required type based on their mixer, dissolver, or reactor technology. For precise applications, like in pharmaceuticals, even small shifts in material grade—from technical to analytical—make a difference in reproducibility and product quality. Storage protection against air, moisture, and heat reduces risks of gradual decomposition or clumping.
Strict safety precautions surround 2-Butyl-4-Chloro-5-Formylimidazole. This compound, much like similar imidazole derivatives, can be harmful if mishandled. Avoiding inhalation of dust or direct contact reduces risk of respiratory or skin irritation. Disposable nitrile gloves, tightly fitted goggles, and well-ventilated workstations remain mandatory in all professional settings. Storage calls for sealed containers, away from light sources and oxidizing agents since these may trigger exothermic breakdown or hazardous vapor release. Many laboratories emphasize dedicated spill containment and neutralization protocols, especially where crystalline or powder forms spread quickly. Emergency routes call for quick access to fume hoods, eyewash stations, and chemical spill kits. Material Safety Data Sheets indicate possible health effects, environmental considerations, and specific treatment methods for accidental exposure. For any workspace where this raw material is in use, training programs for proper handling and disposal give teams the confidence to maintain both output quality and worker health.
2-Butyl-4-Chloro-5-Formylimidazole serves as a niche but important intermediate across several chemical industries. In pharmaceutical research, the compound acts as a building block for active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) synthesis, notably for drugs that require an imidazole-based core altered by selective halogenation or aldehyde functionalization. Its robust reactivity profile makes it popular during step-growth synthesis where specificity and minimal side reactions matter. The growth of custom fine chemical manufacturing has driven up demand for such specialty raw materials. In crop protection or specialty coating fields, its properties help develop new performance additives, extending its reach beyond mere laboratory usage. Real attention to the quality and purity of this compound directly impact the reliability and yield of multi-step syntheses, which often span weeks or months in industrial settings. As global regulations tighten on hazardous and harmful chemicals, keeping close watch on impurity levels, trace heavy metals, and product traceability becomes a part of daily workflow.
Environmental chemistry teams closely monitor substances like 2-Butyl-4-Chloro-5-Formylimidazole for waste management and effluent treatment. Release into water streams can introduce persistent organic pollutants due to its stable halogenated aromatic structure. Modern manufacturing facilities employ activated carbon filtration and advanced oxidation for waste solutions, minimizing environmental impact before disposal. Compliance with regulatory frameworks—such as REACH in Europe or TSCA in the USA—governs bulk transportation and use. Shipping documentation references the HS Code and detailed hazard classifications to keep transit authorities, handlers, and customs inspectors well-informed. Teams at every link in the supply chain embrace training for hazardous material handling, spill remediation, and exposure mitigation. The long-term sustainability of specialty chemical production relies on ongoing monitoring, improved containment, and active communication between suppliers, regulators, and end-users.
