Α-Methyl-1H-imidazole-1-ethanol stands out in the world of specialty chemicals for its solid mix of functional groups and clear structure. This compound brings together the imidazole ring, known for its presence in biologically significant molecules, with a methyl group and an ethanol chain. That combination shapes its use as a raw material and intermediate in areas like pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and certain industrial syntheses. Digging into its molecular formula, C6H10N2O, the chemical includes six carbon, ten hydrogen, two nitrogen, and one oxygen atom, making a relatively lightweight molecule with interesting reactivity. Looking at the product on the bench, it often appears as a colorless to light yellow solid or powder, though under different conditions, it may be processed or shipped as small flakes, crystalline pearls, or even in solution. Real-world batches occasionally display some odor, likely related to its nitrogen-bearing imidazole backbone.
Diving deeper, the physical properties reflect its utility. Α-Methyl-1H-imidazole-1-ethanol does not melt or boil at extreme temperatures, opening doors for reactions requiring temperature control. Chemists often handle this material in powder or crystalline form, where it feels dry to the touch, flows with moderate ease, and resists clumping. Solubility comes into play during formulation or reaction steps, and this molecule dissolves well in polar solvents such as water, methanol, and ethanol. Density sits at approximately 1.14 g/cm³, giving it enough heft for accurate dosing and mixing. The chemical structure features an imidazole ring attached through a methyl group to an ethanol tail. That setup allows for hydrogen bonding, further encouraging solubility and reactivity with acids, bases, or other electrophilic partners. Without proper storage, exposure to moisture may lead to gradual degradation or color change, so airtight containers and cool, dry environments become necessary practices in most labs.
Thinking about the role this material plays, it functions as a flexible intermediate. Its chemical backbone allows for the easy introduction of further modifications, often yielding products with biological activity or unique physical qualities. This is no low-stakes lab experiment. Many research chemists see Α-Methyl-1H-imidazole-1-ethanol as a starter for synthesizing antifungals, enzyme inhibitors, or as a ligand in metal coordination reactions. The imidazole nucleus pops up frequently in drugs and catalysts, and this molecule's combination of alcohol and nitrogen sites pushes it near the top for versatility. Its role as a raw material carries weight in any operation prioritizing high-value, high-yield synthetic steps.
Α-Methyl-1H-imidazole-1-ethanol carries the IUPAC name 2-(1-methylimidazol-1-yl)ethanol. This name captures a structure where the imidazole ring attaches at the N1 position with a methyl group at the alpha site, while the ethanol side chain offers a primary alcohol group at the N1 nitrogen. The molecule’s specific affinity for certain reactions comes from this pattern of bonding. The solid form, whether flakes or crystals, hints at the strong intermolecular forces between alcohol and imidazole nitrogens. Structural diagrams show the heterocyclic ring in tight symmetry, which helps stabilize its reactivity and marks it with distinctive peaks in proton and carbon NMR spectra.
In day-to-day lab practice, the substance flows as a powder or solid flakes, sometimes compressed into pearls for controlled dosing. Occasionally, suppliers offer it as a concentrated solution due to its fluid solubility in organic media. The care in design and handling rules out unnecessary exposure to light or elevated temperature, as such stressors shift its chemical identity, especially at higher concentrations.
Α-Methyl-1H-imidazole-1-ethanol comes with a published molecular formula of C6H10N2O and a molecular weight near 126.16 g/mol. Its density of about 1.14 grams per cubic centimeter provides enough weight for accurate weighing in industrial and laboratory contexts. Consistency in lot specification builds trust, so seasoned chemists and procurement managers look for detailed certificates of analysis showing melting point, purity (most often above 98%), and absence of moisture and heavy metal contamination. The property of remaining as a stable, solid powder at room temperature factors into storage plans and shipping regulations. Each batch can be visually inspected for its expected color (nearly white to pale yellow), signifying minimal degradation during transit.
Α-Methyl-1H-imidazole-1-ethanol features a characteristic imidazole ring in its structure. The ring acts as both an electron donor and acceptor. This effect reflects why the compound can coordinate metals, blend into enzyme active sites, or support the creation of new molecules with selective biological properties. The attached ethanol moiety supplies a reactive alcohol function, suitable for further esterification, substitution, or even cross-linking reactions. Products built from this base material travel into pharmaceuticals, fine chemical manufacturing, and materials development for specialties like corrosion interruption or sensor applications.
On any invoice or shipping document, the HS Code assigned guides customs authorities in safe and compliant transfer. Α-Methyl-1H-imidazole-1-ethanol usually falls under HS Code 29332990, which covers other heterocyclic compounds with nitrogen hetero-atoms only. This designation helps importers and exporters confirm regulatory classification and duty rates. Mistakes in HS code assignment risk regulatory fines or customs delays, so familiarity with the correct code matters for procurement teams operating across borders.
Α-Methyl-1H-imidazole-1-ethanol, like most laboratory chemicals, needs respect for its possible health and environmental effects. Industry literature and safety data sheets flag it as an irritant capable of causing discomfort through skin, eye, or respiratory exposure. Operators should wear safety goggles, nitrile gloves, and work in a benzene-free, well-ventilated space. Accidental spillage means quick cleanup with inert absorbents. Most labs keep spill kits for this scenario. Waste consignments containing this chemical require labeling and must travel through authorized disposal channels to keep untoward releases out of landfills and the environment.
Current data shows low acute toxicity, but chronic or large exposures could still pose risks. Responsible practice relies on tightly sealed containers, clear signage, and strict avoidance of untrained handling. Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) documentation provides the most updated toxicity benchmarks and environmental impact data. That same document spells out reactivity risk. Α-Methyl-1H-imidazole-1-ethanol participates in acid-base reactions, may degrade under strong oxidizing agents, and should not mix with incompatible chemicals without expert oversight. Inhalation of dust or vapor should always trigger a retreat to fresh air and immediate consultation with occupational health officers or safety managers. Regular, documented training and comprehensive chemical inventory management build the first layer of protection against harm.
Chemicals with similar backbones, especially imidazole derivatives, enter regulatory review due to their occurrence in drug intermediates or advanced technological uses. Α-Methyl-1H-imidazole-1-ethanol’s listing in regulatory inventories like REACH, TSCA, or China’s catalog signals its controlled but established place in the market. Sourcing from accredited suppliers secures product traceability and aligns with customer audits or regulatory inspections.
Quality and consistency begin with good sourcing. Not every facility has specialized controls to produce high-purity Α-Methyl-1H-imidazole-1-ethanol, so traceability back to a trusted factory should never be a guess. Procurement teams weigh not just price but certificates of analysis, batch uniformity, and on-time logistics support. Some pharmaceutical firms prefer partnerships with ISO-certified suppliers to keep compliance hurdles at a minimum. In my work tracking custom syntheses, supplier selection often makes or breaks a project timeline, especially with rare intermediates. If defects or contamination creep in, scientists lose time troubleshooting or reworking final targets, raising project costs.
Safe and sustainable use forms the backbone of good laboratory management. Engineering controls—local exhaust, glove boxes, sealed storage—knock down exposure risk, so young chemists and seasoned researchers trust their environment. Best practice means reviewing new research on long-term health or accidental exposure, so occupational safety can keep pace as chemical innovation evolves. Emergency planning, hazard communication, and regular drills make a difference, especially with unusual chemicals. Feedback from incident reports gets shared across teams, cutting down repeat errors and supporting safer workplaces.
Shipping and customs documentation often call for precise labeling, SDS copies, and the recorded HS code, especially for exports or cross-border transactions. Mislabeled shipments can get diverted, sampled, or destroyed by authorities, causing headaches that undermine trust in supply chains. Teams who pay attention to these details keep their projects on track. In regulatory filings or audits, a rock-solid paper trail earns faster approvals and fewer follow-up questions. The longer I’ve worked with specialty chemicals, the more value I see in a supply chain that is both transparent and quickly auditable, especially in regulated fields.
As product demand rises for imidazole derivatives, environmental stewardship will keep gaining attention. More producers recycle spent solvents or blend production steps to minimize waste. Plant managers invest in energy-efficient distillation and recovery units, helping the bottom line while chipping away at emissions. Engineers monitor vapor and liquid waste, using real-time sensors to spot leaks or spills before they pose larger risks. Organizations supporting sustainable practices help keep specialty raw materials viable for years to come.
