The amine catalysed dealdolization of diacetone alcohol

Abstract

The hydroxide ion catalysed decomposition of diacetone alcohol (CH₃)_2- C(OH)CH₂COCH₃ → 2CH₃COCH₃ has been investigated at 25° and I = 0.4M. The catalytic effect of ethylamine, diethylamine, benzylamine, and isopropylamine on the reaction has been studied. A possible mechanism for the amine catalysis involving a carbinolamine intermediate is considered.