Carbamic Acid Derivative as a Surrogate to Methyl Isocyanate

N-Succinimidyl methylcarbamate (1) is utilized as a surrogate to methyl isocyanate for the synthesis of N-methylcarbamate and N-methylurea by the reactions with alcohols and amines, respectively. Alcohols and amines react with 1 in the presence of a base to give corresponding targets via addition reaction. The reaction proceeds below room temperature resulting the target in good yields. Methyl isocyanate is used as a raw material for agrochemicals and chemical products, but has low boiling temperature and strong toxicity. Hence, extreme care is required when it is treated in the laboratory. Whereas, 1 is a solid with low toxicity and can be treated safely with ease of handle.