Solvent-free protocol for amide bond formation via trapping of nascent phosphazenes with carboxylic acids

A solvent-free synthesis of amides via the coupling of phosphazenes with carboxylic acids is reported. Increasing the rate of heating either by microwave irradiation or conventional heating results in multifold increase in the rate of amide bond formation. Synthesis of a library of amides including a potent antitumour candidate has been accomplished.