7th Annual WML Academic Symposium

Presenter(s): Houston Cole
Title: Synthesis of Heterodisubstituted Pyridines via Cyclization of Methyl Ketones, DMSO, and Ammonium Salts
Developed under the guidance of Dr. Sarah K. Goforth , Chemistry

Heterodisubstituted pyridines have been synthesized via cyclization of DMSO, ammonium salts, and two distinct methyl ketones using a previously documented synthetic method that produces homodisubstituted pyridines. The reaction scope with combinations of various alkyl methyl and aryl methyl ketones is being explored. Varying degrees of excess pinacolone relative to acetophenone have been tested to see if larger amounts of the less reactive alkyl ketone increase its likelihood of participating. Preliminary microwave heating results indicate improvement over thermal pressure tube heating. Mass spectrometry and 1H NMR were used to confirm the presence of heterodisubstituted pyridines. Yield and selectivity are being optimized.