Wenker synthesis

In the synthesis Wenker a beta -amino alcohol is then converted into an aziridine by reaction with sulfuric acid and sodium hydroxide:

The synthesis takes place in two steps. In the first step of the β -amino alcohol is reacted with sulfuric acid at high temperature ( 250 ° C). These intermediate forms a sulfuric acid ester. By the use of a base ( sodium hydroxide solution) the free amino group is then obtained from the salt.

In a modified version at a lower temperature ( 140-180 ° C ), we obtain a better yield.