(Hydroxymethyl)-2-pyrrolidinone

1-(hydroxymethyl)pyrrolidone-2-one can be used as a pharmaceutical synthesis intermediate. If 1-(hydroxymethyl)pyrrolidone-2-one is inhaled, move the patient to fresh air; if skin contact occurs, remove contaminated clothing and thoroughly wash the skin with soap and water. If discomfort persists, seek medical attention.

1-(Hydroxymethyl)pyrrolidin-2-one was prepared as follows: 2-pyrrolidinone (212.4 g, 2.0 mol) and potassium hydroxide (0.6 g) were heated to 80 C and oligoformaldehyde (75.6 g, 2.6 mol) was added within 10 min and the mixture was kept at 75 C - 80 C for 1/2 hour. The desired product was then crystallized from 1 part benzene to give 227 g of 1-(hydroxymethyl)pyrrolidin-2-one (88.2%) with a melting point product at 78°-80°C.