The modified 'phosphine imide' reaction: A safe and soft alternative ureas synthesis

Article abstract of DOI:10.1016/j.tetlet.2004.05.002

In this work we present a new way for the direct and general synthesis of urea compounds from primary amines by the modified 'phosphine imide' reaction. A large panel of amine structures are compatible with the smooth reaction conditions. Particularly in the case of sensitive L-aminoesters, it is interesting to note that the stereochemistry at the asymmetric centre was unmodified in the reaction conditions.