3,4-Dimethylpyridine is a chemical compound with various industrial applications, particularly in the pharmaceutical and agricultural sectors. Despite its seemingly niche usage, this compound indirectly impacts everyday life due to its role in the production of medications, pesticides, and other essential products. Its properties and applications contribute to advancements in the fields of healthcare, agriculture, and manufacturing, ultimately influencing the quality and accessibility of everyday products and services.
Table of Contents:
- 💡 Commercial Applications
- ⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
- 🏭 Production & Procurement
- ⚠️ Safety Considerations
- 🔬 Potential Research Directions
- 🧪 Related Compounds
💡 Commercial Applications
3,4-Dimethylpyridine, also known as 3,4-lutidine, is commonly used as a building block in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and other fine chemicals in various commercial and industrial applications. It is utilized as a versatile intermediate in the manufacture of polymers, dyes, perfumes, and corrosion inhibitors.
In the pharmaceutical industry, 3,4-Dimethylpyridine is employed as a catalyst in several drug synthesis processes, particularly in the production of anti-inflammatory drugs and key pharmaceutical intermediates. Its ability to accelerate chemical reactions while maintaining high selectivity makes it an essential component in the pharmaceutical manufacturing process.
Moreover, 3,4-Dimethylpyridine is utilized in the development of various medications, such as antihistamines, antituberculosis drugs, and cardiovascular agents. Its structural properties and reactivity contribute to its effectiveness as a pharmaceutical intermediate, enabling the synthesis of novel drug candidates with improved biological activity and therapeutic potential.
⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
3,4-Dimethylpyridine is a colorless to pale yellow liquid with a characteristic foul odor, resembling that of rotten fish or ammonia. This compound is often used as an intermediate in the production of pesticides and pharmaceuticals due to its strong odor that is useful in certain chemical reactions.
With a molar mass of 109.15 g/mol and a density of 0.905 g/cm³, 3,4-Dimethylpyridine is heavier than common food items such as water (18.015 g/mol) and olive oil (0.92 g/cm³). This higher molar mass and density contribute to its distinct physical characteristics in comparison to food items, making it useful in industrial applications.
3,4-Dimethylpyridine has a melting point of -55 °C and a boiling point of 166 °C, higher than melting and boiling points of common food items like butter (-20 °C, 100 °C) and sugar (186 °C). These inherent differences in melting and boiling points affect the stability and behavior of 3,4-Dimethylpyridine in various processes and applications.
Soluble in water to a limited extent and possessing a low viscosity, 3,4-Dimethylpyridine exhibits different solubility and viscosity properties compared to common food items like salt and syrup. The relatively low solubility in water and low viscosity of 3,4-Dimethylpyridine contribute to its utility in organic solvent-based industrial processes.
🏭 Production & Procurement
3,4-Dimethylpyridine is typically produced through a multi-step synthesis process involving the condensation of acetaldehyde with ammonia to form pyridine. Following this, the pyridine is further reacted with methyl iodide to yield 3,4-Dimethylpyridine. This process requires precise control of reaction conditions and purification steps to ensure high purity of the final product.
3,4-Dimethylpyridine can be procured from various chemical suppliers and manufacturers that specialize in producing organic compounds. It is commonly available in liquid form or as a crystalline solid, depending on the intended application. The compound can be transported in sealed containers to prevent moisture exposure and degradation during transit.
When procuring 3,4-Dimethylpyridine, it is important to verify the quality and purity of the product through analytical testing methods such as chromatography or spectroscopy. Proper handling and storage of the compound are essential to maintain its stability and prevent contamination. Additionally, proper labeling and documentation of the chemical are necessary for regulatory compliance and safe transportation.
⚠️ Safety Considerations
Safety considerations for 3,4-Dimethylpyridine include its potential to cause irritation to the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract upon contact. It is important to handle this chemical in a well-ventilated area to minimize exposure to vapors, and to wear appropriate personal protective equipment, such as gloves and goggles, when working with 3,4-Dimethylpyridine. In case of skin contact, the affected area should be washed with plenty of soap and water, and in case of eye contact, the eyes should be rinsed with water for several minutes while removing contact lenses, if present.
Hazard statements for 3,4-Dimethylpyridine include “Causes skin irritation,” “Causes serious eye irritation,” and “May cause respiratory irritation.” These statements indicate the potential risks associated with skin, eye, and respiratory exposure to 3,4-Dimethylpyridine. It is important to be aware of these hazards when handling this chemical in order to take necessary precautions to prevent any adverse health effects.
Precautionary statements for 3,4-Dimethylpyridine include “Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection,” “IF ON SKIN: Wash with plenty of soap and water,” and “IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses, if present and easy to do.” These statements emphasize the importance of wearing appropriate personal protective equipment, and provide specific instructions on how to respond in case of skin or eye contact with 3,4-Dimethylpyridine. Following these precautionary measures is crucial to minimize the risks associated with handling this chemical.
🔬 Potential Research Directions
One potential research direction for 3,4-Dimethylpyridine includes investigating its potential as a catalyst in organic reactions, due to its electron-donating properties and ability to form stable complexes with transition metals.
Another avenue of research could involve exploring the biological activity of 3,4-Dimethylpyridine, as it has been reported to exhibit antimicrobial and antifungal properties. Further studies could elucidate its mechanism of action and potential applications in drug development.
Additionally, researchers may investigate the use of 3,4-Dimethylpyridine as a building block in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals or agrochemicals, given its versatile reactivity and potential for creating structurally diverse compounds with various biological activities. This could lead to the development of new compounds with enhanced efficacy and improved properties for various applications.
🧪 Related Compounds
One similar compound to 3,4-Dimethylpyridine is 2,4-Dimethylpyridine. This compound has the same molecular formula as 3,4-Dimethylpyridine, but with the methyl groups positioned at the 2nd and 4th carbon atoms instead of the 3rd and 4th.
Another related compound is 3,5-Dimethylpyridine, where the methyl groups are located at the 3rd and 5th carbon atoms. This compound differs from 3,4-Dimethylpyridine by the position of one methyl group.
Additionally, 2,3-Dimethylpyridine is another compound closely related to 3,4-Dimethylpyridine. In this compound, the methyl groups are attached to the 2nd and 3rd carbon atoms, leading to a different positional isomer with similar chemical properties.