10.1021/jo00321a012
The research primarily investigates the kinetics of the hydrolysis and aminolysis of various amino esters, such as γ-ethyl glutamate, diethyl glutamate, O-acetylserine, and ethyl pyrrolidone-5-carboxylate, using a Radiometer ITTlc pH-stat to measure the rate of proton release. The study explores how factors like temperature, ionic strength, and the presence of phosphate buffers influence these reactions. Additionally, the research delves into the effects of substituents, particularly methyl groups, on Birch reductions and other metal-ammonia processes in aromatic compounds. Key chemicals involved include γ-ethyl glutamate, diethyl glutamate, O-acetylserine, ethyl pyrrolidone-5-carboxylate, sodium hydroxide, potassium chloride, and various aromatic compounds like naphthalenes and biphenyls. The study also examines the behavior of dianions and radical anions in these reactions, questioning the sites of protonation and the stability of intermediates.