Overview
1-Methylimidazole (CAS 616-47-7 ), commonly abbreviated as NMI, is a nitrogen-containing heterocyclic compound used industrially as a catalyst, curing agent, and synthesis intermediate.
Its reactivity toward electrophiles and metal coordination makes it a practical building block across pharmaceutical manufacturing, polymer chemistry, and specialty coatings.
In epoxy resin systems, NMI functions as a latent curing agent and cure accelerator, enabling controlled crosslinking in electrical laminates, adhesives, and industrial coatings.
Pharmaceutical manufacturers use it as a coupling catalyst in peptide synthesis and acylation reactions, where it improves reaction efficiency and yield at scale.
NMI is a key precursor in the synthesis of ionic liquids, particularly imidazolium-based salts used as reaction media or electrolytes in battery and electrochemical applications.
It also serves as a ligand or co-catalyst in organometallic processes, supporting active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) production and fine chemical synthesis.
1-Methylimidazole is supplied as a colorless to pale yellow liquid in drums, IBCs, and bulk quantities. Technical grade is the standard commercial offering for most uses.
High-purity grades are available for pharmaceutical and electronic applications. Buyers should confirm water content and color specifications when sourcing for sensitive catalytic applications.
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Physical Properties
| Melting Point | -6 °C |
| Boiling Point | 198-199 °C |
| Density | 1.035 g/cm³ (liquid) |
| Flash Point | 198 °F |
| Appearance | Clear colorless to yellow liquid |
| Color | Clear colorless to yellow |
| Form | Liquid |
| Water Solubility | Miscible with water. |
| Vapor Pressure | 0.4 mm Hg ( 20 °C) |
| Refractive Index | n 20/D 1.495(lit.) |
| pH | 9.5-10.5 (50g/l, H2O, 20℃) |
| Log P | -0.19 at 25℃ |
Safety & Handling
Danger GHS05 GHS07 GHS06 GHS08 Hazard Statements H302 Harmful if swallowed H311 Toxic in contact with skin H312 Harmful in contact with skin H314 Causes severe skin burns and eye damage H318 Causes serious eye damage Precautionary Statements P203 Obtain, consult and follow expert instructions for use. P260 Do not breathe dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray. P262 Do not get in eyes, on skin, or on clothing. P264 Wash … thoroughly after handling. P270 Do not eat, drink or smoke when using this product. P280 Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection. P316 Get emergency medical help immediately. P317 Get emergency medical help. P318 IF exposed or concerned, get medical advice. P321 Specific treatment (see … on this label). P330 Rinse mouth. P363 Wash contaminated clothing before reuse. P405 Store locked up. P501 Dispose of contents/container in accordance with local regulations. P264+P265 Wash … thoroughly after handling. P301+P317 Get emergency medical help. P302+P352 IF ON SKIN: Wash with plenty of water. P304+P340 IF INHALED: Remove person to fresh air and keep comfortable for breathing. P361+P364 Take off immediately all contaminated clothing and wash it before reuse. P362+P364 Take off contaminated clothing and wash it before reuse. P301+P330+P331 Rinse mouth. Do NOT induce vomiting. P302+P361+P354 IF ON SKIN: Take off immediately all contaminated clothing. Rinse skin with water/shower. P305+P354+P338 IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses, if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing.
Trade & Regulatory
| HS Code | 29332990 |
| UN Number | 3267 |
| ADR Class | 8 |
| Packing Group | II |
| WGK (Germany) | 1 |
Other Names
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Chemical Properties
- CAS Number
- 616-47-7
- EC Number
- 210-484-7
- Mol. Weight
- 82.10
- HS Code
- 29332990
- Category
- Heterocyclic Compounds