Lead acetate catalyzed solvent-free synthesis of N-[3-(dimethylamino)propyl] amides

Comparison of classical basic and salts catalysts activities was performed in amidation reaction between various esters and 3-(dimethylamino)-1-propylamine. High catalytic activity of lead acetate was determined. Addition of small amounts of lead acetate leads to the increasing of amidation reaction rate even for esters with high steric factor (isopropyl acetate or poly(methyl methacrylate)) used as reactants.