Transition metal-free synthesis of α-ketoamides from arylmethyl ketones and alkylphosphoramides

Abstract

A transition metal-free protocol has been developed for the synthesis of α-ketoamides from aryl methyl ketones and alkylphosphoramides in the presence of oxidant, aqueous Tert-butyl Hydroperoxide (TBHP). A series of aryl methyl ketones having both electron-donating as well as electron-withdrawing groups were successfully employed for the synthesis of their corresponding α-ketoamides using hexamethylphosphoramide and other alkylphosphoramides.