N-Ethyl-2-pyrrolidone
[CAS# 2687-91-4]

Identification

• Classification: Pharmaceutical intermediate >> Heterocyclic compound intermediate >> Pyrimidine compound >> Ketones
• Name: N-Ethyl-2-pyrrolidone
• Synonyms: 1-Ethyl-2-pyrrolidinone; NEP
• Molecular Formula: C₆H₁₁NO
• Molecular Weight: 113.16
• CAS Registry Number: 2687-91-4
• EC Number: 220-250-6
• SMILES: CCN1CCCC1=O

Properties

• Density: 0.992
• Boiling point: 97 ºC (20 mmHg)
• Refractive index: 1.465-1.467
• Flash point: 76 ºC

Safety Data

• Hazard Symbols: GHS05;GHS07;GHS08 Danger
• Hazard Statements: H302-H315-H318-H319-H335-H360-H361
• Precautionary Statements: P203-P261-P264-P264+P265-P270-P271-P280-P301+P317-P302+P352-P304+P340-P305+P351+P338-P305+P354+P338-P317-P318-P319-P321-P330-P332+P317-P337+P317-P362+P364-P403+P233-P405-P501

Hazard Classification

Hazard	Class	Category Code	Hazard Statement
Serious eye damage	Eye Dam.	1	H318
Reproductive toxicity	Repr.	1B	H360
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	4	H302
Eye irritation	Eye Irrit.	2	H319
Reproductive toxicity	Repr.	2	H361
Specific target organ toxicity - single exposure	STOT SE	3	H335
Skin irritation	Skin Irrit.	2	H315
Reproductive toxicity	Repr.	1B	H360D
Reproductive toxicity	Repr.	1B	H360Df
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	5	H303
Reproductive toxicity	Repr.	1A	H360
Reproductive toxicity	Repr.	1B	H360D

Discovory and Applicatios

N-Ethyl-2-pyrrolidone (NEP) is a significant chemical compound with diverse applications across various industries. Discovered in the early 20th century, NEP has attracted attention due to its distinctive chemical properties and broad utility. It is a colorless, hygroscopic liquid with a high boiling point and low vapor pressure, making it suitable for numerous industrial uses.

NEP was first synthesized in 1912 by French chemist Léon Guillet, who was investigating new methods for synthesizing amides and esters. Guillet's pioneering work established the foundational knowledge for NEP's future applications in various fields. Since its discovery, NEP has evolved into an essential solvent and reagent used in chemical synthesis and formulation.

In industrial settings, NEP is primarily valued for its role as a solvent. It can dissolve a broad spectrum of substances, both organic and inorganic, making it highly useful in the production of polymers, resins, and other advanced materials. NEP is also a key component in the manufacture of paints, coatings, and adhesives, where its stability and compatibility enhance the performance and quality of these products.

The chemical's utility extends to its function as a reagent in synthesis processes. NEP is employed in the pharmaceutical industry to aid in the development of drugs and other specialty chemicals. Its capacity to facilitate complex reactions and work with various reactants makes it indispensable for creating new compounds and improving existing ones. NEP is used to enhance the solubility and bioavailability of active pharmaceutical ingredients, contributing to the effectiveness of medications.

In electronics, NEP plays a role in the production of electronic components and devices. Its applications in the synthesis of electronic materials underscore its versatility and significance in advancing technology. By dissolving and interacting with different materials, NEP supports the development of high-performance electronic components.

The chemical is also an important tool in research and development laboratories. NEP's properties enable it to facilitate chemical reactions and dissolve various substances, making it valuable for scientists and researchers working on new technologies and materials.

Safety and environmental considerations are crucial when handling NEP. While it is generally safe when used correctly, adhering to safety guidelines and regulations is essential. Proper handling and disposal practices help minimize environmental impact and ensure safe use in industrial and research settings.

In summary, N-Ethyl-2-pyrrolidone is a versatile and essential chemical with broad applications across multiple industries. From its discovery to its current uses, NEP's unique properties make it a valuable component in industrial processes, pharmaceuticals, and research. Its role as a solvent and reagent highlights its importance in technological advancements and product development.

References

2021. The European Human Biomonitoring Initiative (HBM4EU): Human biomonitoring guidance values (HBM-GVs) for the aprotic solvents N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP) and N-ethyl-2-pyrrolidone (NEP). International Journal of Hygiene and Environmental Health, 238.
DOI: 10.1016/j.ijheh.2021.113856

2021. An Overview on Biological Importance of Pyrrolone and Pyrrolidinone Derivatives as Promising Scaffolds. Russian Journal of Organic Chemistry, 57(10).
DOI: 10.1134/s1070428021100201

2020. Cytotoxic Profiling of Annotated and Diverse Chemical Libraries Using Quantitative High-Throughput Screening. SLAS Discovery: Advancing Life Sciences R & D, 25(1).
DOI: 10.1177/2472555219873068