The mass spectra of diaziridinones

The electron-impact induced fragmentation of four N,N′-di-t-alkyl-substituted diaziridinones (I to IV) has been studied by both conventional and high resolution mass spectrometry. All diaziridinones exhibit weak molecular ions. Ejection of an alkyl isocyanate, corresponding to the N-alkyl substituent, from the molecular ion, is a dominant and general fragmentation process. Isocyanate-type odd-electron fragment ions occur only in III and IV (where at least one R group is phenyl) and are of low abundance. Elimination of a hydrocarbon radical from the tertiary alkyl substituents is observed in all compounds investigated. McLafferty rearrangement with elimination of a neutral alkene occurs in all compounds. Abundant even-electron hydrocarbon ions corresponding to the mass of the N-alkyl substituent are prevalent. The complete absence of elimination of carbon monoxide is noted. Loss of oxygen from the M ? RCH²]+ species has been confirmed by accurate mass measurement. Several remarkable rearrangement reactions have been uncovered by high resolution studies and deuteration experiments.