On-column N-dearylation of 2-azetidinones by silica-supported ceric ammonium nitrate

A modified traditional preparative chromatographic column can be used to achieve quantitative N-dearylation of N-(alkoxyphenyl), N-(alkoxynaphthyl), and N-(alkoxybenzyl)-2-azetidinones under mild conditions. Starting materials are charged on top of the column and the pure N-unsubstituted 2-azetidinones leave the column minutes later without need for other purifications. The yields are good-to-excellent and the reaction condition is mild, easy, efficient, and cheap.