Novel imidazole derivatives as potential agrochemicals: Synthetical and mechanistic studies

The importance of the imidazole nucleus is briefly outlined and some naturally occurring derivatives listed. The problem associated with direct alkylation on the imino nitrogen is discussed and synthesis of 1-alkyl derivatives by the thermal decarboxylation of 1-alkoxycarbonylimidazoles examined as a possible alternative. Spectroscopic investigation of this mechanism is reported. The fungal threat to plantains in the tropics by black siga-toka and the option of chemical control are discussed. Synthesis of potential fungicides are reported.