In the vast landscape of organic chemistry, pyridine derivatives hold a significant position due to their presence in numerous natural products, pharmaceuticals, and functional materials. 5-Ethyl-2-pyridineethanol (CAS 5223-06-3) is one such versatile derivative, offering a unique combination of functional groups that make it a valuable intermediate for synthesis. Understanding its chemical properties and how it's produced is crucial for chemists seeking to leverage its potential.

Chemical Structure and Key Properties

5-Ethyl-2-pyridineethanol, with the molecular formula C9H13NO and a molecular weight of approximately 151.21 g/mol, features a pyridine ring substituted at the 5-position with an ethyl group and at the 2-position with a 2-hydroxyethyl group (-CH2CH2OH). This structure imparts several key properties:

  • Basicity: Like other pyridines, it exhibits basic properties due to the lone pair of electrons on the nitrogen atom in the aromatic ring.
  • Reactivity of the Hydroxyl Group: The primary alcohol group (-OH) can undergo typical alcohol reactions, such as esterification, etherification, oxidation, and nucleophilic substitution after activation. This functionality is a primary site for further derivatization.
  • Aromaticity of the Pyridine Ring: The pyridine ring itself can participate in electrophilic aromatic substitution, although it is generally less reactive than benzene. The substituents influence the regioselectivity of such reactions.
  • Solubility: It is typically soluble in common organic solvents like chloroform and ethyl acetate, and its polarity is influenced by the hydroxyl group.

Typical Synthesis Routes

While specific industrial synthesis routes are often proprietary, common laboratory preparations for 5-Ethyl-2-pyridineethanol often involve modifications of existing pyridine structures. One common approach might involve the functionalization of a precursor like 5-ethyl-2-methylpyridine. For instance, methods could include:

  • Alkylation followed by Reduction: Reacting a suitable 2-substituted 5-ethylpyridine precursor to introduce a two-carbon chain with a protected hydroxyl group, followed by deprotection.
  • Ring Synthesis: Constructing the pyridine ring with the desired substituents already in place, though this is often more complex for highly substituted pyridines.
  • Oxidation and Reduction Strategies: A synthetic route could involve oxidizing a pre-existing side chain to a carboxylic acid, reducing it to an alcohol, or performing chain elongation reactions.

Manufacturers who produce 5-Ethyl-2-pyridineethanol on an industrial scale typically optimize these methods for yield, purity, and cost-effectiveness. When you buy this compound from a reputable supplier, you are assured of a product that has undergone rigorous synthesis and purification processes.

Significance as an Intermediate

The combination of basic nitrogen, an ethyl group, and a reactive hydroxyl moiety makes 5-Ethyl-2-pyridineethanol a sought-after intermediate. Its structure is amenable to the creation of diverse heterocyclic compounds, which are foundational in pharmaceutical drug design and agrochemical development. Whether you are a researcher exploring new synthetic pathways or a procurement manager ensuring supply chain continuity, understanding the chemistry behind this compound from a trusted manufacturer like us enhances its value.

For those interested in purchasing 5-Ethyl-2-pyridineethanol (CAS 5223-06-3), working with experienced chemical manufacturers ensures access to high-quality material and comprehensive technical data to support your synthetic endeavors.