Catalytic reaction of methyl formate with amines to formamides

A feasible procedure of using methyl formate as cheap reagent for the conversion of aliphatic and aromatic amines into formamides with high yields is reported. The improved amine formylation method proceeds mainly at room temperature and in presence of bicyclic guanidines as catalysts. A verifiable key intermediate of outstanding formylating activity is generated from methyl formate and the catalyst in the reaction mixture.