Methods for preparing glufosinate and related compounds

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for preparing glufosmate, and specifically a method for preparing glufosmate of formula (1) or its optical enantiomer or optically enantiomer, or a mixture of its optically enantiomers in a ratio of two, including the hydrolysis step of the compound of formula (III) to produce the compound of formula (1). Due to the special reaction mechanism employed in the method described in the invention, it is possible to avoid halogenated hydrocarbon byproducts in the Michaclis-Arbuzov reaction and thus prevent the destructive effects of halogenated hydrocarbon byproducts on atmospheric ozone. Consequently, investments in equipment and techniques necessary for the separation, purification, and collection of the aforementioned byproducts are eliminated. This also helps avoid potential environmental and safety risks posed by the aforementioned by-products.