1-Methylimidazole CAS 616-47-7

What 1-Methylimidazole Is

1-Methylimidazole is a five-membered imidazole ring carrying one methyl group, a colorless to pale yellow liquid that mixes with water, alcohols and many solvents and picks up moisture from air. As a tertiary amine it acts as a strong base and nucleophilic catalyst that is not consumed into the polymer, so it works well at low dosing rather than as a bulk resin ingredient. The molecule has a fixed formula and a boiling point near 198 °C. UATChem supplies standard industrial material and lower-moisture, higher-clarity lots for electronic potting and casting, with assay and water content confirmed on the COA for each lot.

Epoxy, Polyurethane and Synthesis Uses

• Anhydride epoxy catalyst. An accelerator for anhydride cured epoxy that speeds the reaction at low loading while lifting heat resistance and electrical properties, used in electronic potting, insulating castings, composites and DY 070 type accelerator systems.
• Polyurethane catalyst. A tertiary amine catalyst for the isocyanate polyol reaction in PU foam, coatings and elastomers.
• Ionic liquid precursor. Further alkylation of N-methylimidazole gives imidazolium ionic liquids such as BMIM, used as solvents, extraction media and electrolytes.
• Organic synthesis. A non-consumed acid scavenger and base, a process solvent and a building block for active ingredients, agrochemicals and dyes.

Typical Specifications

Industrial and electronic grades differ in assay, water content and color; values are reported on the COA for each lot, and the physical constants below identify the material.

Packaging, Documents and Ordering

• Delivered as a liquid in plastic jerrycans, steel drums and IBC tanks, with glass bottles for samples; containers stay sealed, below about 30 °C, dry and away from moisture, carbon dioxide and ignition sources, with transport class shown on the SDS.
• The liquid irritates and may burn the skin, eyes and respiratory tract and may sensitize skin, so gloves, goggles and ventilation are used and vapor contact is avoided. Every lot carries a COA with assay, water content, color, density and refractive index, together with TDS and SDS, and samples are supported.
• For a quote, UATChem needs the grade (industrial or electronic), quantity, packing and destination port, and low moisture or tight color limits can be discussed for electronic use.

FAQ

Q: What is 1-methylimidazole used for?

A: It catalyzes anhydride epoxy and polyurethane cure, acts as an acid scavenger, and is an imidazolium ionic liquid precursor.

Q: Is 1-methylimidazole a curing agent or a catalyst?

A: It is a low-dose catalyst for anhydride epoxy cure, not the main hardener; it speeds cure and lifts heat resistance.

Q: How should 1-methylimidazole be stored and packed?

A: It is hygroscopic, so it ships sealed in jerrycans, drums or IBC tanks, kept cool and dry, with COA and SDS.