FLASH VACUUM PYROLYSIS OF 2-BENZYLPYRIDINE N-OXIDES. SYNTHESIS OF METHYLPYRIDO[1,2-a]INDOLES

Abstract Flash vacuum pyrolysis of 2-benzylpyridine N-oxides afforded pyrido[1,2-a]-indole and its various methyl-substituted derivatives in moderate yields. Benzo[g]quinoline in the pyrolyses of 2-(o-methylbenzyl)pyridine N-oxide and 2-benzyl-3-methylpyridine Noxide, and 2-(β-styryl)pyridine in the reaction of 2-(β-phenethyl)pyridine N-oxide were major products as exceptional cases.