SO2F2-mediated oxidation of primary and tertiary amines with 30% aqueous H2O2 solution

Abstract

A highly efficient and selective oxidation of primary and tertiary amines employing SO2F2/H2O2/base system was described. Anilines were converted to the corresponding azoxybenzenes, while primary benzylamines were transformed into nitriles and secondary benzylamines were rearranged to amides. For tertiary amine substrates quinolines, isoquinolines and pyridines, their oxidation products were the corresponding N-oxides. The reaction conditions are very mild and just involve SO2F2, amines, 30% aqueous H2O2 solution, and inorganic base at room temperature. One unique advantage is that this oxidation system is just composed of inexpensive inorganic compounds without the use of any metal and organic compounds.