Ethyl Imidazole-4-Carboxylate belongs to the imidazole family, a well-known group in both pharmaceutical and chemical manufacturing. This compound takes the form of a solid material in most ambient conditions, often appearing as white or off-white flakes, powder, or crystalline pieces. Companies handling specialty chemicals often stock this material as a feedstock or intermediate because of its core imidazole structure and carboxylate group, which encourage further synthetic modifications. Laboratories and large-scale manufacturers rely on this compound’s predictable behavior and reactivity for a variety of applications, from active pharmaceutical ingredient synthesis to specialty coatings.
The molecular formula for Ethyl Imidazole-4-Carboxylate stands as C6H8N2O2, and its molecular weight comes out to 140.14 g/mol. Most suppliers offer this product in a solid state, with a density close to 1.25 g/cm3. The crystalline structure shows high purity and stability under standard storage, with moisture sensitivity only arising under severe humidity or heat. Chemical handling teams recognize its low solubility in water but good solubility in many organic solvents such as ethanol or ethyl acetate. This property opens doors for those in organic synthesis and pharmaceuticals who want a compound that can integrate into complex molecules without excessive byproduct formation.
The structure includes an imidazole ring bonded to a carboxylate ester at the 4-position, giving versatility in further reactions. Under a microscope, its crystals may look like sharp-edged flakes, or, when ground, reduce to a fine powder. In production plants, batches appear as loose, flowable solid or sometimes as compressed cakes ready for further processing or formulation. Some suppliers offer the product as pearls for easier dosing, since small granules reduce dust and clumping. Factory workers may notice that this material keeps its appearance even with brief exposure to light and air. Unlike substances that quickly absorb water or oxidize, Ethyl Imidazole-4-Carboxylate stays solid except in strong acid or base environments.
Bulk shipments arrive in drums, high-density polyethylene containers, or double-layered bags, always with hazard labels instructing safe handling. Documentation with each lot nails down purity (usually above 98%), melting point, density, and detailed spectral data. SDS sheets warn of typical hazards: mild irritation to skin or eyes, or harm if dust gets inhaled in sizable quantity. Staff who load or unload such material use goggles, gloves, and local extraction ventilation to avoid lingering exposure. Bulk density values and flow traits help batch engineers make accurate material feeds, especially in continuous reactors or blending units.
On paperwork, Ethyl Imidazole-4-Carboxylate usually travels under HS Code 2933.29 for international trade, flagging it as an imidazole derivative. Regulatory agencies tend not to categorize it as a major hazardous chemical, so normal chemical hygiene practice applies. Safety sheets insist that work occurs in well-ventilated spots and spills get handled with standard absorbents, never washed down drains. Disposal follows local rules for organics, given that imidazoles, if left unchecked, may challenge water treatment plants. Technicians responsible for monitoring indoor air keep an eye on airborne particles and solvent vapors released during weighing or dissolving. Emergency responders prepare by consulting product codes and wearing splash-proof suits if facing a major spill or fire.
This product frequently appears as a raw material in the synthesis of new drugs, agrochemicals, corrosion inhibitors, and even dyes. Its ester group enables laboratories to tailor-make building blocks for downstream reactions, often without the need for excessive purification. Researchers value materials like Ethyl Imidazole-4-Carboxylate for their reliability, clean melting points, and ability to stand up to many reaction conditions without decomposing prematurely. Formulators in pharmaceutical plants can use analytical tests instantly to confirm the product before scaling up batches, cutting down on wasted resources and failed reactions.
Workers often wonder about the risks, given the word “imidazole” sometimes raises flags. Ethyl Imidazole-4-Carboxylate does not give off strong fumes and lacks the volatility of some chlorinated intermediates. Still, if ingested or dusts are breathed in heavy amounts, the compound irritates lungs and the digestive tract. Facilities posting clear labels and instructions help workers spot risks early and take action. Teams with steady access to eye wash stations, gloves, and barrier creams experience far fewer incidents in long production runs.
Proper storage means keeping this chemical in tightly sealed, dry containers, away from oxidizers and strong acids. Temperature-controlled storage areas prevent clumping or accidental exposure to the elements. Large storage rooms assign dedicated spaces for organics—never near reactive metals or mineral acids. Warehouse managers rotate stock so older material gets used soonest, keeping product fresh for high-purity needs. Frequent audits and inventory checks hold teams accountable, making sure no drum goes overlooked or accidental contamination slips by.
Ongoing staff training in chemical hygiene and safe transfer protocols lowers workplace incidents involving this raw material. Routine air quality checks ensure airborne dust does not rise to levels that could cause discomfort or harm. Proper labeling, secondary containment, and easy-to-access SDS sheets let staff work with confidence. By sourcing from certified suppliers who publish COA and batch records, companies avoid inconsistency in reaction output and ensure downstream processes stay on track. Adopting closed transfer systems and vacuum handling also reduces losses and environmental burden, making both production and cleanup easier to manage at scale.
