2-Pyrrolidone (also known as α-Pyrrolidinone or 2-P) is a key organic synthesis intermediate, most notably the upstream feedstock for NVP (N-Vinylpyrrolidone) — the monomer behind the entire povidone family (PVP, PVPP, copovidone). It’s also used directly to manufacture nylon-4, and as a high-boiling polar solvent in its own right.
Product · 2-P Synthesis Intermediate
2-Pyrrolidone (2-P / α-Pyrrolidinone)
Technical Specifications — Grade Comparison
Three purity tiers. Premium Grade targets purity-sensitive applications; First and Standard Grades are cost-effective options for general synthesis use.
| Parameter | Premium Grade | First Grade | Standard Grade |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2-Pyrrolidone content (w/%) | ≥99.50 | ≥99.00 | ≥98.50 |
| Water (w/%) | ≤0.10 | ≤0.20 | ≤0.20 |
| Chromaticity (Hazen units) | ≤20 | ≤30 | ≤30 |
| Refractive index (n25D) | 1.4820 – 1.4860 | 1.4820 – 1.4860 | 1.4820 – 1.4860 |
CAS Number: 616-45-5
Documentation
- Certificate of Analysis (CoA) with every shipment
- TDS / MSDS available on request
- Batch traceability for regulatory filings
Key Applications
2-Pyrrolidone across synthesis intermediates, nylon-4, and high-boiling polar solvent applications.
NVP & Povidone-Family Synthesis
The upstream raw material for NVP production, and by extension the entire povidone polymer family (PVP, PVPP, copovidone).
Nylon-4 Synthesis
Used to manufacture nylon-4 (polyamide-4), a biodegradable polyamide used in specialty fiber and film applications.
Pharmaceutical Intermediate — Piracetam
A key raw material in the synthesis of Piracetam, a nootropic pharmaceutical used to treat age-related memory decline and support cognitive function — a substantial and established pharmaceutical market.
High-Boiling Polar Solvent
As a colorless, high-boiling polar solvent, 2-P is widely used as an organic synthesis medium for resins, agrochemicals (pesticides), polyols, inks, and iodine complexing applications.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you also supply NVP and the polymers made from it?
Yes — we supply NVP (N-Vinylpyrrolidone) as well as the downstream polymer family: PVP (K12–K120) and PVPP (Crospovidone). If your supply chain needs 2-P, NVP, and finished polymer, we can support multiple stages of that chain.
Is 2-Pyrrolidone used in pharmaceutical manufacturing?
Yes. 2-Pyrrolidone is a key raw material in the synthesis of Piracetam, a nootropic pharmaceutical used for age-related memory decline and cognitive support — one of several established pharmaceutical and specialty chemical applications for this intermediate.
Which grade should I choose?
Grade selection depends on your application's purity sensitivity. Premium Grade suits applications most sensitive to trace water and color (such as electronics-grade solvent use), while First Grade and Standard Grade are cost-effective options for less purity-sensitive synthesis applications. Let us know your application and we can recommend the right grade.
Do you provide certificates of analysis for each batch?
Yes, a batch-specific Certificate of Analysis is provided with every shipment.