Synthesis
Step 1: A solution of 1-methyl-4,5-dicyanimidazolium (105.0 g) in 750 mL of 6N NaOH was stirred vigorously under reflux for 2 hours. After the reaction was complete, the hot solution was carefully acidified with concentrated hydrochloric acid to a pH of approximately 2, and then cooled to ambient temperature. The solution was filtered, and the filtrate was dried at 100°C to remove water, yielding the corresponding 1-methyl-4,5-imidazolium dicarboxylic acid intermediate.
Step 2: A mixture of 850 mg of 1-methyl-4,5-imidazolium dicarboxylic acid and 25 mL of N,N-dimethylacetamide was heated at 180°C for 3 hours. After the reaction was complete, the mixture was evaporated, and the residue was extracted with benzene. The residue was then recrystallized from ethanol to obtain the target product, 1-Methyl-1H-imidazole-4-carboxylic acid.
