Oxidation of primary amines to ketones

A simple method for the oxidn. of primary amines to the corresponding ketones in the presence of both moisture and air is described. Treatment of an amine with benzoyl peroxide in the presence of Cs2CO3, followed by warming of the hydroxylamine product to 50-70° leads directly to the ketone. The method is shown to be effective for both benzylic and aliph. substrates. [on SciFinder(R)