2ethyl2oxazoline

2-ethyl-2-oxazoline is a heterocyclic organic compound with the chemical formula C5H9NO. It is a colorless liquid with a characteristic odor. The molecule features a five-membered ring containing one oxygen atom and one nitrogen atom, with an ethyl group attached to the carbon atom adjacent to the nitrogen.

This compound is a derivative of oxazoline, a class of organic compounds characterized by the oxazoline ring structure. 2-ethyl-2-oxazoline is an important monomer used in the synthesis of poly(2-ethyl-2-oxazoline) (PEtOx). This polymer belongs to the class of pseudo-polypeptides and exhibits properties such as water solubility and biocompatibility. PEtOx has found applications in various fields, including drug delivery, biomaterials, and coatings, due to its tunable properties and low toxicity.

The synthesis of 2-ethyl-2-oxazoline typically involves the cyclization of N-(2-hydroxyethyl)propionamide or related precursors. Its reactivity stems from the strained ring structure and the presence of the nitrogen atom, which can undergo various chemical transformations. Beyond its role as a monomer, 2-ethyl-2-oxazoline can also be used as a solvent or as an intermediate in the synthesis of other organic compounds. Its physical properties, such as boiling point and solubility, are influenced by the ethyl substituent.