Abstract: A one-pot selective synthesis of phenylglycine with high yield from benzaldehyde, chloroform,potassium hydroxide and ammonia in the presence of phase-transfer catalyst (PTC)and β-cyclodextrin(β-CD)binary catalyst system has been studied.Results obtained are far superior to that of other similar methods.The data show that PTC β-CD is a more efficient catalyst than either PTC or β-CD alone,and both cationic and nonionie PTC-β-CD can enhance the production of phenylglycine with good yields and selectivities.A preliminary mechanism is also discussed.

Key words: phenylglycine, β-eyclodextrin, phase-transfer catalyst, selectivity, synthesis