Flow Synthesis of 2-Methylpyridines via α-Methylation
Camille Manansala1, Geoffrey K. Tranmer1 2 *
- 1 College of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Science, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 0T6, Canada
- 2 Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3T 2N2, Canada
Read the publication that featured this abstractA series of simple 2-methylpyridines were synthesized in an expedited and convenient manner using a simplified bench-top continuous flow setup. The reactions proceeded with a high degree of selectivity, producing α-methylated pyridines in a much greener fashion than is possible using conventional batch reaction protocols. Eight 2-methylated pyridines were produced by progressing starting material through a column packed with Raney® nickel using a low boiling point alcohol (1-propanol) at high temperature. Simple collection and removal of the solvent gave products in very good yields that were suitable for further use without additional work-up or purification. Overall, this continuous flow method represents a synthetically useful protocol that is superior to batch processes in terms of shorter reaction times, increased safety, avoidance of work-up procedures, and reduced waste. A brief discussion of the possible mechanism(s) of the reaction is also presented which involves heterogeneous catalysis and/or a Ladenberg rearrangement, with the proposed methyl source as C1 of the primary alcohol.
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