Conversion of N-benzyloxycarbonylamino- and N-tosylamino-benzyl phenylsulfones by green Strecker reactions to α-aminobenzyl nitriles using potassium hexacyanoferrate(II).

The cyanation of aldimines, generated in situ from N-benzyloxycarbonylamino- and N-tosylamino-benzyl phenylsulfones, to the corresponding N-protected α-aminobenzyl nitriles has been achieved by eco-friendly Strecker reactions using potassium hexacyanoferrate(II) as a cyanide source, benzoyl chloride as a promoter, and potassium hydroxide as a base. The protocol has the advantages of using a nontoxic, nonvolatile and inexpensive cyanating agent, employing a simple work-up procedure and producing high yields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]