A New Method of Making 1,2,4-triazolo-[4,3-a]pyrazine

N-heterocycles, also known as nitrogen heterocycles, are cyclic chemical structures made up of one or more nitrogen atoms. Their existence forms some of nature's most fundamental molecular structures, existing in everything from DNA to energetic materials. One particular N-heterocycle, 1,2,4-triazolo-[4,3-a]pyrazine, has promising and versatile applications including molecular therapeutics and energetic material development. Current procedures to synthesize this N-heterocycle have required reaction conditions and steps which are not economically or environmentally sustainable. Therefore, researchers at Purdue University have developed a novel electrochemical and photochemical approach to synthesizing 1,2,4-triazolo-[4,3-a]pyrazine in a simplified and eco-friendly manner. This new methodology enables an innovative way to further advancements across a variety of industries, from pharmaceuticals to materials, all while maintaining environmentally responsible precautions.

Technology Validation: Methodology was developed and tested, along with its effects and results analyzed to find ideal synthesis conditions.

Advantages:

-Simplified methodology that mitigates environmentally unsustainable impacts

-Versatile industry uses and is fundamental to a variety of applications

-Two-step process

Applications:

-Pharmaceutical development and delivery

-Energetic material research and development

Publication:

Yount, J., Morris, M., Henson, N., Zeller, M., Byrd, E. F. C., & Piercey, D. G. (2024). Sequential, Electrochemical-Photochemical Synthesis of 1,2,4-Triazolo-[4,3-a]pyrazines. In Chemistry – A European Journal (Vol. 30, Issue 31). Wiley. https://doi.org/10.1002/chem.20240066

TRL: 3

Intellectual Property:

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