A solvent-free one step conversion of ketones to amides via Beckmann rearrangement catalysed by FeCl3·6H2O in presence of hydroxylamine hydrochloride

FeCl3·6H2O catalyses the direct conversion of ketones to amides via Beckmann rearrangement in the presence of hydroxylamine hydrochloride in good to excellent yields. No additional organic solvent is required. This solid phase reaction involves in situ formation of oxime, cleavage of C–C bond and formation of C–N bond. FeCl3·6H2O is inexpensive, stable, easy to handle and eco-friendly.