THE CONVERSION OF α-KETO ACIDS AND OF α-KETO ACID OXIMES TO NITRILES IN AQUEOUS SOLUTION

Abstract

The conversion of α-oximino acids (anti HO— —COOH) to nitriles in aqueous solution is shown to be a general reaction. α-Keto acids are converted to nitriles in excellent yield in aqueous solution in the presence of hydroxylamine. Oxidation of α-oximino acids yields hydroxamic acids.