Applications of N-Phosphinoyloxaziridines in the Conversion of Alkenes to Epoxides and Esters to α-Hydroxyesters

N-Phosphinoyloxaziridines possessing an activating 3-CF 3 substituent oxidise alkenes to epoxides at 35-45 °C. Esters can be oxidised to α-hydroxyesters via their lithium enolates by various 3-subsituted N-phosphinoyloxaziridines. Stereoselectivity is observed in both these oxidations.