A safe, convenient and efficient method for the preparation of heterocyclic N-oxides using urea·hydrogen peroxide

A novel, convenient, and high-yielding method has been developed for the preparation of heterocyclic N-oxides. The reaction uses the urea·hydrogen peroxide addition complex as a peroxide source for the in situ generation of trifluoroperacetic acid. The advantages of this method are easy handling of a stable, solid oxidant; high yields and simple removal of excess reagents and by-products.