Process for the resolution of racemic alpha- aminonitriles

Abstract From the Canadian patent

A process is disclosed for the resolution of racemic .alpha.aminonitriles of the formula, (T), wherein R1 is hydrogen or methyl R2 is hydrogen or methoxy and R3, is hydrogen or methyl wherein the racemic mixture is reacted with (-)dibenzoyl-tartaric acid in a polar solvent to obtain a racemic mixture of diastereoisomeric D and L salts of (-)-dibenzoyl-tartaric acid. The racemic mixture of salts is macerated with aqueous dioxan to dissolve the D salt. The L salt is separated neutralized and the, L-amino nitrile extracted and converted into a stable form such as the hydrochloride or acyl derivative. The D salt is racemized with ammonia and the D,L-aminonitrile recycled.