Amide bond formation using an air-stable source of AlMe3

Abstract

Synthesis of amides from coupling esters with a range of primary amines can be conveniently achieved in moderate to excellent yields (69-99%) using an air-stable adduct of trimethylaluminium (AlMe3)2·DABCO (DABCO is 1,4-diazobicyclo[2.2.2]octane), referred to as DABAL-Me3. Reactions can be run without requiring the exclusion of atmospheric oxygen or the drying of solvents. © 2006 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.