Direct Synthesis of N,N-Disubstituted Formamides by Oxidation of Imines Using an HFIP/UHP System.

The straightforward synthesis of N,N-disubstituted formamides using a combination of 1,1,1,3,3,3-hexafluoroispropanol (HFIP) and H2O2 is described. The unique features of HFIP allowed the utilization of a green oxidant such as H2O2, and the products, arising from an oxidation-rearrangement sequence, were obtained in good to high yields under smooth reaction conditions.