Sulfuric Acid → 2-Hydroxytricyclo[3.3.1.13,7]decane-2-carbonitrile

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Reaction Steps

To a well stirred solution of 2-adamantanone (45.0 grams, 0.3 mol) in 200 ml methanol were added 50 ml concentrated sulfuric acid at a rate that caused the solution to reflux. Then a saturated aqueous solution of sodium cyanide (88.2 grams, 0.6 mol) was added, and the mixture was first refluxed for 1 hour and then stirred at room temperature for 3 additional hours. Ether was added, and the organic solution was decanted from the precipitated salts. The ether solution was washed with an aqueous solution of sodium chloride and water and then dried and evaporated to leave 43.0 grams (81%) of compound 4 as a beige crystalline solid, melting point >240° C. (decomposition).

Provenance & Evidence