- ▸ Heterocyclic latent curing agent/accelerator for one-component epoxy systems, giving high-Tg, heat-resistant networks
- ▸ Used in epoxy molding compounds, electrical laminates and powder coatings as a fast cure catalyst
- ▸ Promotes homopolymerization of epoxy groups at elevated cure temperatures
A grade-specific Safety Data Sheet (SDS) — with the complete hazard classification, handling precautions, and transport information — is supplied with every shipment and available on request. Confirm all safety and regulatory details against the SDS for your specific grade.
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Imidazole is an imidazole epoxy curing agent and accelerator — it both cures epoxy on its own (catalytic homopolymerization) and accelerates other hardeners, giving high-Tg, heat-resistant networks. It is the parent imidazole. Identity: CAS 288-32-4.
What it is
Imidazole is a nucleophilic imidazole. Imidazoles act as catalytic curing agents and accelerators for epoxy, used at low loadings and often as latent (heat-activated) curatives.
How it cures
The imidazole nitrogen initiates epoxy homopolymerization (catalytic cure) and accelerates amine/anhydride cures; this builds a high-crosslink, high-Tg, chemically and heat-resistant network. Used at low levels, often for one-component (latent) heat-cure systems.
Applications
It is used in electronic and structural epoxy (laminates, encapsulants, powder and adhesives), and as an accelerator for other hardeners and a catalyst (also in PU). See the epoxy curing agents guide; latent option DICY.
Forms, grades and handling
Supplied as a solid/low-melting product in bags and drums. Properties are typical reference values; the Certificate of Analysis (CoA) for the lot you buy governs. Amine curing agents are typically corrosive and can sensitize skin — handle per the current Safety Data Sheet (SDS). Each lot ships with CoA, TDS and SDS.
Bulk supply and RFQ
RawSource sources Imidazole direct from producers in bulk, with CoA, TDS and SDS per lot. Tell us your resin system, cure schedule (ambient or heat) and the properties you need (pot life, Tg, flexibility, chemical resistance), and we will quote the right hardener. See selection logic in the epoxy curing agents guide.
Typical Properties
Typical reference values, not a specification; the Certificate of Analysis (CoA) for the lot governs.
| Property | Typical Value |
|---|---|
| Chemical / class | Imidazole curing agent / accelerator |
| Cure role | Latent/heat cure & accelerator |
| CAS Number | 288-32-4 |
| Molecular Formula | C3H4N2 |
| Molecular Weight | 68.08 g/mol |
| Handling | Refer to the current SDS |
Regulatory & registration requirements
- TSCA (US):
- REACH (EU):
- EC number: 206-019-2
Source: EPA TSCA Inventory (July 2025 release) · ECHA CHEM — retrieved 2026-07-12
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Imidazole used for?
Imidazole (CAS 288-32-4) is an imidazole epoxy curing agent and accelerator used in electronic and structural epoxy (laminates, encapsulants, powder and adhesives), giving high-Tg, heat-resistant networks; it is also an accelerator for other hardeners and a catalyst.
How is bulk Imidazole supplied and quoted?
RawSource supplies Imidazole in bulk with CoA, TDS and SDS per lot. Pricing is quote-based on grade and volume; submit an RFQ with your resin system and cure schedule.
What is the REACH and TSCA regulatory status of Imidazole?
Imidazole (CAS 288-32-4) is subject to U.S. TSCA Inventory requirements; supplying it into the EU requires valid REACH registration ((EC) No 1907/2006). RawSource cannot verify a third-party supplier's registrations — buyers should require documented TSCA and REACH compliance for their jurisdiction and volume (EC 206-019-2).