The use of BrCCl3-PPh3 in Appel type transformations to esters, O-acyloximes, amides, and acid anhydrides

Esters, acyloximes, amides and acid anhydrides have been prepared from the respective carboxylic acids, oximes, amines and alcohols by the use of the reagent combination BrCCl3-PPh3. The reactions obviate the handling acyl halides or more aggressive reagents PCl3, POCl3, or SOCl2. Furthermore, the environmentally hazardous CCl4 used in Appel-type reactions is replaced with BrCCl3, a reagent of less environmental concern.