One-Pot Synthesis of Ureas from Boc-Protected Amines

A practical one-pot synthesis of ureas is described. Boc-protected amines can be transformed into nonsymmetrical and symmetrical disubstituted and trisubstituted ureas utilizing 2-chloropyridine and trifluoromethanesulfonyl anhydride for the in situ generation of an isocyanate, which reacts with an amine. A variety of amines can be employed successfully, leading to high yields of isolated ureas.