Resolution of a Metastable Racemic Compound of Anhydrous Phencyphos by Hydrate Formation

Abstract

The resolution of 2-hydroxy-5,5-dimethyl-4-phenyl-1,3,2-dioxaphosphorinan 2-oxide (phencyphos) was achieved by dissolution of anhydrous racemic phencyphos, a racemic compound, accompanied by simultaneous secondary nucleation of the dissolved racemate on to enantiopure seeds of phencyphos hydrate, a conglomerate. The seeds were placed in separate compartments and the pure enantiomers could be conveniently collected from these compartments after the dissolution of the anhydrous racemate.