Synthesis of primary amides by lipase-catalyzed amidation of carboxylic acids with ammonium salts in an organic solvent

The synthesis of butyramide and oleamide, by Candida antarctica lipase B-ca talyzed amidation of the carboxylic acids, in an organic solvent with ammon ium bicarbonate or ammonium carbamate as a source of ammonia results in goo d yields, making prior activation of the acids unnecessary.