Strecker reactions with hexacyanoferrates as non-toxic cyanide sources

Abstract

The Strecker reaction is the most widely applied three-component reaction. Although highly useful for the preparation of α-amino nitriles, α-amino acids, hydantoins and numerous related compounds, the need for the application of toxic sources of HCN limits its application in both academic and industrial settings. Here, we present a facile protocol for Strecker reactions using a mixture of potassium ferri- and ferrocyanides as a non-toxic substitute.