Facile one-step conversion of ketones into alpha-azidoketones using [hydroxy(tosyloxy)iodo]benzene and sodium azide in the presence of a phase-transfer catalyst under solvent-free conditions

We have described a one-step, solvent-free synthesis of alpha-azidoketones from the corresponding ketones that requires relatively benign [hydroxy(tosyloxy) iodo]-benzene reagent, sodium azide, and phase-transfer catalyst at room temperature. Generality of the protocol has been demonstrated by synthesizing various alpha-azidoketones high in yield and purity within a short time.