Hofmann Degradation

Abstract

The conversion of carboxylic amides into primary amines with one less carbon atom via the isocyanate intermediate by means of basic hypohalite treatment is known as the Hofmann rearrangement. The heat is needed for this reaction and in some cases cyanate is also formed. This reaction is often used as a method for cuting a single carbon atom out of a chain. This reaction has been modified by the substitution of a hypohalite with (diacetoxyiodo) benzene. This reaction has general application for the conversion of carboxylic amides into amines.