A straightforward synthesis of N-monosubstituted α-keto amides via aerobic benzylic oxidation of amides

An efficient sodium bicarbonate promoted aerobic oxidation reaction to prepare N-monosubstituted α-keto amides in the presence of n-tetrabutylammonium hydrogensulfate (TBAHS) was described. This reaction provides a very simple and convenient synthetic route to N-monosubstituted α-keto amides from easily available aryl- or heteroarylacetamides in good to high yields without using toxic reagents and harsh conditions.