The Schmidt rearrangement introduces nitrogen through the reaction of hydrazoic acid or an azide equivalent with suitable carbonyl substrates. Depending on substrate class, the reaction can provide amides, lactams, amines, or related nitrogen-containing products.
Migration and selectivity
Product formation involves migration to nitrogen with loss of molecular nitrogen. Electronic and steric effects influence which group migrates, so substrate-specific evaluation is important when more than one pathway is possible.
Safe process planning
Azide chemistry requires appropriate hazard assessment, temperature control, compatible equipment, and validated workup procedures. Alternative reagents and continuous-processing strategies may be considered when they improve risk control.