For professionals in the chemical and pharmaceutical industries, a thorough understanding of key intermediates is fundamental to innovation and production. 2-Pyridinecarboxaldehyde (CAS 1121-60-4), also known as Picolinaldehyde, is one such compound whose distinct properties underpin its widespread use. This article provides a detailed examination of its characteristics and applications, offering insights for those seeking to buy 2-Pyridinecarboxaldehyde for their specific needs.

Physical Properties: A Foundation for Handling and Use

2-Pyridinecarboxaldehyde is typically described as a light yellow to light brown liquid. Its physical constants are critical for process design and handling:

  • Appearance: Light Yellow to Light Brown Liquid
  • Molecular Formula: C6H5NO
  • Molecular Weight: 107.11 g/mol
  • Melting Point: -21–22°C
  • Boiling Point: 181°C (lit.)
  • Density: 1.126 g/mL at 25°C (lit.)
  • Solubility: Miscible with many organic solvents; slightly soluble in water.

The low melting point ensures it remains in a liquid state under typical laboratory and storage conditions, simplifying its use in reactions. The relatively high boiling point indicates it is less volatile than many common organic solvents, which can be advantageous for certain reaction conditions and storage.

Chemical Properties: Reactivity and Versatility

The chemical behavior of 2-Pyridinecarboxaldehyde is dominated by its aldehyde functional group and the aromatic pyridine ring.

  • Aldehyde Reactivity: The formyl group (–CHO) is highly reactive. It readily undergoes nucleophilic addition reactions, forming hemiacetals and acetals with alcohols, or reacting with amines to form imines (Schiff bases). It can also be oxidized to the corresponding carboxylic acid (picolinic acid) or reduced to the primary alcohol (2-pyridylmethanol). These reactions are standard tools in organic synthesis.
  • Pyridine Ring Characteristics: The pyridine ring is aromatic and electron-deficient due to the nitrogen atom. This influences electrophilic aromatic substitution reactions, making them more difficult than in benzene and directing substitution to specific positions. Conversely, the ring can be susceptible to nucleophilic attack under certain conditions.

This dual reactivity makes 2-Pyridinecarboxaldehyde a versatile building block for complex molecular architectures.

Key Applications in Industry

The primary industrial application for 2-Pyridinecarboxaldehyde is as an intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals. It is a critical precursor for:

  • PAM (Pralidoxime Iodide): Used as an antidote for organophosphate poisoning.
  • Bisacodyl: A widely prescribed stimulant laxative.

Beyond pharmaceuticals, its utility extends to:

  • Organic Synthesis: A common reagent for creating heterocyclic compounds, complex amines, and other specialty chemicals.
  • Materials Science: Used in the development of functional polymers and specialty materials due to its unique structural and electronic properties.

Sourcing 2-Pyridinecarboxaldehyde

For businesses seeking to purchase 2-Pyridinecarboxaldehyde CAS 1121-60-4, it is advisable to partner with reputable manufacturers and suppliers. When evaluating options for an industrial grade 2-Pyridinecarboxaldehyde for sale, inquire about purity assays, packaging, and storage conditions. Understanding the 2-Pyridinecarboxaldehyde price manufacturer provides is key to securing cost-effective procurement. Many leading suppliers are located in China, offering competitive rates for this essential chemical.

Conclusion

2-Pyridinecarboxaldehyde is a compound of significant importance due to its well-defined physical and versatile chemical properties. Its role in pharmaceutical synthesis and broader organic chemistry applications makes it a compound that procurement specialists and R&D scientists must understand. By focusing on its characteristics and sourcing from trusted 2-Pyridinecarboxaldehyde manufacturers, industries can effectively leverage its potential.