Lutidine

Brief Overview
2,6-Lutidine is a natural heterocyclic aromatic organic compound and has the formula (CH 3 ) 2 C 5 H 3 N. It is one of several dimethyl-substituted derivatives of pyridine. It appears as a colorless liquid with mildly basic properties and a pungent odor. Though pyridine is the source of carbon, nitrogen, and energy for certain microorganisms, methylation significantly retards the degradation of the pyridine ring. 2,6-Lutidine was found to be significantly more resistant to microbiological degradation than any of the picoline isomers or 2,4-lutidine in soil. Significant volatilization loss was observed in liquid media. The estimated time for complete degradation was <30 days.

Manufacturing Process
2,6-Lutidine is produced industrially by the reaction of formaldehyde, acetaldehyde, and ammonia, isolated from a basic fraction of coal tar

Food Industry
2,6-Lutidine has been evaluated for use as a food additive due to its nutty aroma when present in solution at very low concentrations

Pharmaceutical Industry
In the pharmaceutical industry, it can be used for the production of antiatherosclerotic pyridinolcarbamate.