EFFECT OF IONIZING RADIATION ON PYRIDINE
Abstract
Pyridine, like benzene, has the resonating pielectron structure identified with aromatic compounds. Polar contributions due to the nitrogen atom in the pyridine ring are also present. Gamma irradiation (2.5 x 10 to the 22nd power ev/1 or 2.7 x 10 to the 5th power roentgens) of pure dried, oxygen- free, liquid pyridine resulted in negligible gas yields, but in measurable amounts of non- gaseous products. Analysis of these products by gas chromatography and ultraviolet absorption spectroscopy revealed the formation of 2,2'-bipyridine, 2,x'-bipyridine (either or both 2,3'-and 2,4'-bipyridine), and approximately an equal amount of an unidentified product. The total yield of a non-gaseous product from pyridine approximates that for benzene, demonstrating that pyridine behaves essentially as an aromatic when irradiated, and is relatively stable to radiation. The contribution of the presence of the N-atom is noted in the bipyridine isomers formed, and in the distribution of products. The bipyridine fraction of the total product is much greater than the biphenyl fraction from benzene. As an aromatic compound, but one that is easily compatible with both organic and inorganic compounds, we anticipate that the pyridine molecule may be incorporated in systems where radiation protection or stability is desired. A mechanism based on the formation of free radicals is presented for the chemical effects of radiation on pyridine.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 1962
- Accession Number
- AD0286058
Entities
People
- C. Pearce