Phase-transfer catalyzed formation of .alpha.-cyano ketones from ketone aroylhydrazones in NaCN(aq)-inert organic solvent system
摘要:
Alpha-Cyanoalkyl aryl ketones can be obtained from ketone aroylhydrazones by heterogeneous reaction with aqueous sodium cyanide, an inert organic solvent, and acetic acid in the presence of air and a catalytic amount of a quaternary ammonium salt. The initially formed HCN adducts undergo air oxidation followed by alkaline-induced decomposition affording the alpha-cyanoalkyl ketones. The phase-transfer catalyst promotes all three reactions.