Studies on the oxidation of α-amino acids by N-Bromo oxidants: Kinetics of the reaction of bromide ion with N-Bromoacetamide

The rate of oxidation of amino acids (AA) by N-Bromoacetamide (NBA) was studied in aqueous buffered medium at 35°C. The rate of disappearance of NBA] is catalyzed by the Br⁻ produced from the reduction of NBA. Analysis of the autocatalyzed reaction gives the kinetic data for the oxidation of bromide ion by NBA. The results suggest that the protonated NBA reacts with Br⁻ to form Br₂ which rapidly oxidizes amino acids. The rate constant for the reaction between protonated NBA and Br⁻ at 35°C is estimated. © 1996 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.