Safe and Efficient Phosgenation Reactions in a Continuous Flow Reactor

Phosgene is widely used in organic synthesis owing to its high reactivity, utility, and cost efficiency. However, the use of phosgene in batch processes on the industrial scale is challenging owing to its toxicity. An effective method to minimize reaction volumes and mitigate the safety risks associated with hazardous chemicals is the use of flow reactors. Consequently, we have established a flow reaction system using triphosgene and tributylamine, which affords a homogeneous reaction that avoids clogging issues. In addition, we have demonstrated that this methodology can be applied to a wide variety of phosgene reactions, including the preparation of pharmaceutical intermediates, in good to excellent yields.