Chemical Properties
Colorless liquid
Uses
2,2-Dimethylbutyryl chloride is a reagent that is used in the synthesis of 4α,5-Dihydro Simvastatin, the drug, is sold under the trade name Zocor. Zocor is a competitive inhibitor of HMG-CoA reductase.
Application
2,2-Dimethylbutyryl chloride has been shown to be a potent CB2 receptor agonist in vitro. It can also be used as an effective acid catalyst for various organic reactions.
Hazard
2,2-Dimethylbutyryl chloride is a flammable liquid, it causes severe skin burns and eye damage.
Synthesis
Under stirring, 25.6g of 2,2-dimethylbutyric acid and 35.8g of sulfoxide chloride were added to a three-necked flask, heated to reflux, and the hydrogen chloride and sulfur dioxide gases were absorbed with alkali. After no gas was produced, the excess sulfoxide was evaporated, and then 2,2-dimethylbutyryl chloride was obtained by distillation under reduced pressure as 26.9g, with 90% yield.
