Abstract: N—[N-(3,3-dimethylbutyl)-L-?-aspartyl]-L-phenylalanine 1-methyl ester is produced by hydrogenation of L-?-aspartyl-L-phenylalanine 1-methyl ester and 3,3-dimethylbutyraldehyde produced in situ by the hydrolysis or cleavage of a 3,3-dimethylbutyraldehyde precursor. The production method is efficient and low cost, as compared with conventional N—[N-(3,3-dimethylbutyl)-L-?-aspartyl]-L-phenylalanine 1-methyl ester synthesis.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a process of oxidation of alcohols selectively to aldehydes or ketones with molecular oxygen using a TEMPO based catalyst, Fe-bipyridyl or Fe-phenantroline co-catalyst and N-bromosuccinimide promoter in acetic acid solvent. The oxidation takes places at high rates and high aldehyde selectivity at temperatures in the range 45-50° C. and oxygen or air pressures of 0-15 psi. The alcohol conversion of 95-100% and aldehyde selectivity higher than 95% are achieved over 3-4 hours reaction time. Aldehydes such as 3,3-dimethyl-1-butanal can be produced efficiently using the present invention.