Cobalt-catalyzed carbonylation of phenylacetaldehyde to N-acetyl-beta-phenylalanine
Journal
Catalysis Letters
Journal Volume
45
Journal Issue
1-2
Pages
139-141
Date Issued
1997
Author(s)
Abstract
N-acetyl-beta-phenylalanine has been produced by the reaction of phenylacetaldehyde, acetamide and CO/H2 in the presence of cobalt carbonyl catalyst. N-acetyl-beta-phenylalanine yields of 2-82 mol% and cobalt recoveries of 8% had been achieved under the conditions of 000 psi of : CO/H2 and 0°C in a batch process. The presence of a suitable ligand, 1,2-bis(diphenylphosphino)ethane, was essential for maintaining cobalt in homogeneous solution. The feasibility of using a continuous phase reactor with a dual feed stream system was demonstrated. N-acetyl-beta-phenylalanine is proposed to be the precursor to L-phenylalanine, the key intermediate for aspartame sweetener.
SDGs
Type
journal article