Synthesis 1987; 1987(1): 53-55
DOI: 10.1055/s-1987-27841
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Catalytic Transfer Hydrogenolysis of N-Benzyl Protecting Groups

B. M. Adger* , C. O'Farrell, N. J. Lewis, M. B. Mitchell
  • *Synthetic Organic Chemistry Department, Smith Kline and French Research Limited, Old Powder Mills, Leigh, Nr. Tonbridge, Kent TN11 9AN, England
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Publication History

Publication Date:
20 August 2002 (online)

The catalytic transfer hydrogenolysis of a number of N-benzyl compounds has been examined. Of the three hydrogen donors studied, ammonium formate and hydrazine hydrate were more effective than sodium hypophosphite. In general, debenzylation of secondary and tertiary benzylamines could be readily accomplished by refluxing the substrate with an excess of the hydrogen donor in alcoholic solvents for a few hours using catalytic amounts of 10% palladium on carbon. The two N-benzyl heteroaromatic amines studies were stable to the above conditions.