Flow Synthesis of 2-Methylpyridines via α-Methylation.

A series of simple 2-methylpyridines were synthesized in an expedited and convenient manner using a simplified bench-top continuous flow setup. The reactions proceeded with a high degree of selectivity, producing α-methylated pyridines in a much greener fashion than is possible using conventional batch reaction protocols. Eight 2-methylated pyridines were produced by progressing starting material through a column packed with Raney(®) nickel using a low boiling point alcohol (1-propanol) at high temperature.