Synthesis of β-hydroxyacetamides from unactivated ethyl acetates under base-free conditions and microwave irradiation

Abstract The amidation of unactivated ethyl esters with achiral and chiral 1,2-amino alcohols under microwave irradiation and base-free conditions is described. This procedure provides a convenient method for the synthesis of β-hydroxyacetamides bearing pyrazole, imidazole, and benzimidazole groups in high yields and without racemization. The protocol described herein is environmentally friendly and allows for the preparation of a wide variety of β-hydroxyacetamides, which are key intermediates in the synthesis of oxazolines and other derivatives of biological interest.