Good day, everybody.
I am in search of the name of this reaction as well as a literature reference. I am a forensic toxicologist, and this reaction (see insert) is basically the conversion of an organic acid to an ester using an organic anhydride as a catalyst (presumed). The inserted reaction is used to quantify the amount of benzoylecgonine in a biological fluid. I’ve searched some literature and I’ve seen this reaction used, but no literature is given It’s just this is what we did, for reasons. I’ve seen this reaction mentioned in the literature as far back as 1949, but no reason given as to why. It is as though the reader is supposed to know. Once upon a time (late 1960’e early 1970’s) I was good at organic chemistry, but this reaction eludes me. Any help would be appreciated.
Be well and thanks in advance.
Bill
I'll get back to you when I figure out how to post an image.