Imidazolidine

Imidazolidine is a saturated heterocyclic organic compound with the chemical formula C3H8N2. It is a five-membered ring containing two nitrogen atoms and three carbon atoms. The two nitrogen atoms are located at positions 1 and 3 of the ring, and the carbon atoms are at positions 2, 4, and 5. Imidazolidine is the fully saturated analog of imidazole.

The basic structure of imidazolidine can be substituted at various positions, leading to a wide range of derivatives. The most common derivative is imidazolidinone, also known as ethyleneurea, which features a carbonyl group at the 2-position. Other substituted imidazolidines include those derived from amino acids, such as hydantoin, which is a 2,4-imidazolidinedione.

Imidazolidine and its derivatives find applications in various fields. For example, imidazolidinone is used as a formaldehyde-releasing agent in textiles and cosmetics, acting as a preservative. Certain imidazolidine derivatives are employed as intermediates in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals. Some imidazolidine compounds also exhibit biological activity and are investigated for potential therapeutic uses. The chemical properties of imidazolidine, such as its basicity due to the nitrogen atoms, contribute to its reactivity and utility in various chemical reactions.