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Updated: Jan 11, 2026

Preparation of Binary and Ternary Deep Eutectic Systems
Published on: October 31, 2019
Assessing Sodium Amide Reagents for Ester Amidations in Deep Eutectic Solvents in Continuous Flow
Andrew W J Platten1, Bruno Pinho2, Laura Torrente-Murciano2
1Department für Chemie Biochemie und Pharmazie, Universität Bern, Freiestrasse 3, 3012 Bern, Switzerland.
This study introduces sodium amides in deep eutectic solvents (DES) for efficient ester and C-F bond amidation under mild conditions. This novel approach in continuous flow chemistry enhances reactivity and prevents reactor clogging by dispersing byproducts.
Area of Science:
- Organic Synthesis
- Flow Chemistry
- Green Chemistry
Background:
- Sodium amide chemistry traditionally requires anhydrous conditions and is limited in synthetic scope.
- Deep eutectic solvents (DES) offer unique properties for facilitating chemical reactions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the use of sodium amides in DES for efficient amidation reactions.
- To develop a continuous flow process for amidation using sodium amides in DES.
- To investigate the role of DES in enhancing reactivity and managing byproducts.
Main Methods:
- Amidation of esters and C-F bond amination of difluoropyridine using sodium amides in DES.
- Continuous flow reactor setup operating at room temperature.
- In situ synthesis of sodium amide reagents.
- X-ray crystallography and spectroscopic studies to characterize reagents.
Main Results:
- Efficient amidation of esters and C-F bonds achieved at room temperature, tolerating air and moisture.
- DES facilitates a biphasic system enabling segmented flow and preventing reactor clogging by dispersing byproducts.
- Higher conversions and selectivities observed compared to conventional batch conditions.
- In situ synthesis of sodium amides demonstrated using NaN-(SiMe3)2.
- Characterization revealed monomeric/dimeric species of sodium amides in THF.
Conclusions:
- Sodium amides in DES represent a powerful and versatile tool for amidation in continuous flow.
- This method offers a greener and more efficient alternative to traditional amidation techniques.
- The unique properties of DES are crucial for the success of this flow chemistry approach.
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