Efficient Protocol for Stereoselective Epoxidation of Cinnamic Esters Using TsNBr2

An efficient method has been developed for the synthesis of epoxide from cinnamic esters without any catalyst. The reaction was performed in CH₃CN–water (4:1) using N,N-dibromo-p-toluenesulfonamide (TsNBr₂) in alkaline conditions. This procedure can be utilized for stereoselective synthesis of epoxides from cinnamic esters in excellent yield in a shorter reaction time with exclusive formation of the trans-isomer. The method was further extended successfully for styrenes.