Ammonia-free synthesis of 3-trifluoromethyl-3-phenyldiaziridine

An ammonia-free synthesis of 3-trifluoromethyl-3-phenyldiaziridine, an important intermediate in the synthesis of a widely used photolabel 3-trifluoromethyl-3-phenyldiazirine, is described. By avoiding the use of volatile, corrosive, and toxic anhydrous ammonia, the major hazard involved in the synthesis of this widely used photolabel is eliminated. Furthermore, this synthesis is convenient compared to the conventional route, since it is significantly less time consuming and, due to the absence of liquid ammonia, this method does not require the maintenance of low temperature for prolonged periods.