Finetech Industry Limited offers high-purity 2-Ethyl-4-methylimidazole (CAS: 931-36-2), a critical imidazole derivative widely recognized for its versatile role as a latent curing agent and chemical intermediate. Often referred to in industrial and academic circles as 2E4MZ, 2-ethyl-4-methyl-1H-imidazole, or 931-36-2, this compound is indispensable in the formulation of high-performance epoxy resins and polyurethane systems.
With the molecular formula C6H10N2 and a molecular weight of 110.16, 2-Ethyl-4-methylimidazole serves as a more stable alternative to simpler imidazoles. The alkyl substitution at the 2 and 4 positions modulates the basicity and nucleophilicity of the nitrogen atoms, allowing for a controlled catalytic profile that is highly valued in thermosetting polymer research.
The primary application of 2-Ethyl-4-methylimidazole is as a hardening agent for epoxy resin systems. Unlike aliphatic amines, 2E4MZ offers excellent latency at room temperature while providing rapid curing at elevated temperatures.
According to research in the Journal of Applied Polymer Science, imidazole derivatives like 2-Ethyl-4-methylimidazole facilitate the anionic polymerization of epoxy groups, leading to a high glass transition temperature and superior thermal stability in the resulting matrix. This makes it a preferred choice for:
Electronic Packaging: Integrated circuit encapsulation and PCB laminates.
Aerospace Composites: Providing structural integrity under thermal stress.
Adhesives: Formulating one-component (1K) heat-curable adhesives.
Beyond polymer chemistry, the imidazole ring is a privileged scaffold in medicinal chemistry. 2-Ethyl-4-methyl-1H-imidazole serves as a precursor in the synthesis of various bioactive molecules. Its structural motif is often explored in the development of antifungal agents and enzyme inhibitors.
In the production of rigid and flexible polyurethane foams, 2E4MZ acts as an efficient catalyst for the isocyanate-polyol reaction. Its unique structure helps balance the "blowing" and "gelling" reactions, ensuring uniform cell structure and improved mechanical properties.
To assist researchers and procurement specialists, the following synonyms and related chemical identifiers are frequently used in global databases:
2E4MZ / EMI-24
1H-Imidazole, 2-ethyl-4-methyl-
2-Ethyl-5-methylimidazole (Isomeric form)
CAS 931-36-2
Imidicure 2E4MZ
Finetech Industry Limited ensures rigorous quality control through advanced analytical techniques. Our 2-Ethyl-4-methylimidazole is characterized by:
Purity: 96%
Appearance: viscous liquid
He, G., et al. "Kinetics of Epoxy Resin Curing Catalyzed by Imidazole Derivatives." Polymer Engineering & Science.
Zhang, J., & Wong, C. P. "Recent Advances in Latent Curing Agents for Epoxy Resins in Electronic Packaging." IEEE Transactions on Components and Packaging Technologies.
"Safety and Regulatory Data for 2-Ethyl-4-methylimidazole," ECHA Substance Infocard.
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