4-(Hydroxymethyl)pyridine-2-carboxylic acid(CAS: 923169-37-3)

4-(Hydroxymethyl)pyridine-2-carboxylic acid is a white crystalline solid. Its molecular weight is approximately 187.18 g/mol. It has a low solubility in water but good solubility in organic solvents like ethanol and acetone. This compound is moderately reactive, exhibiting basic behavior due to its hydroxyl functionality. It is often used in chemical synthesis due to its reactivity and specific functional groups.

4-(Hydroxymethyl)pyridine-2-carboxylic acid can be synthesized via the condensation of 2-hydroxypyridine with acetyl chloride in the presence of a catalytic amount of p-toluenesulfonic acid. The reaction yields a mixture, which can be purified by column chromatography. Alternatively, it can be synthesized from 4-hydroxypyridine-2-carboxylic acid using hydrogenation to introduce the hydroxymethyl group.

4-(Hydroxymethyl)pyridine-2-carboxylic acid is primarily used in the pharmaceutical industry as an intermediate in the synthesis of drug compounds. It also finds applications in the polymer industry for the modification of polymers, and in the production of sensors and semiconductors due to its unique chemical properties.

Proper handling of 4-(Hydroxymethyl)pyridine-2-carboxylic acid requires the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, goggles, and a lab coat. This compound should be handled in a fume hood to minimize exposure. In case of a spill, immediately clean up using appropriate absorbent materials and follow standard laboratory safety protocols. Consult the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for detailed handling and storage instructions.