Pyridines as leaving groups in synthetic transformations: conversion of amines into esters
Abstract
Primary amines RCH2NH2 are converted into acetates (MeCO2CH2R) and benzoates (PhCO2CH2R) in a two-step process: (a) reaction with triphenylpyrylium tetrafluoroborate and (b) pyrolysis of the pyridinium tetrafluoroborate so obtained with the sodium carboxylate.