100031-33-2

Uses as catalyst for the conversion of arylglyoxals to α-aryl-α-hydroxyacetic esters.

Bis(N-propylsalicylideneaminato)cobalt(II) is prepared by a solution of bis(salicylaldehyde)cobalt(II) dihydrate and a slight excess of propylamine in methanol is heated at reflux in the presence of a trace amount of formaldehyde for 10 to 40 min. As the mixture is cooled, red crystals separate out. The crystals are filtered quickly and dried in vacuo.

Unlike the N-i-propylsalicylidene CoII complex, the N-i-propylsalicylidene CoII complex is readily oxidized by oxygen in the atmosphere. It is thus necessary to carry out the above procedure in an oxygen-free atmosphere.