A derivatization method for the determination of amines in alkaline medium

3-Azabicyclo[3.3.0]octane has been determined in dilute aqueous solution (10 mg l −1 ) by ultraviolet spectrophotometry after derivatization with hypochlorite ion. The reaction has been carried in the presence of an excess of hypochlorite (10–50%) in buffer solutions of pH ranging between 10 and 13. Formed N -chloro-3-azabicyclo[3.3.0]octane exhibits an absorption band at λ =257 nm ( ϵ =358 M −1 cm −1 ). This method has the advantage of operating in alkaline medium and for low contents of amine. It is particularly well adapted to the study of phases equilibria in the liquid–liquid ternary system RR′NH–NaOH–H 2 O and to the determination of amines contents in aqueous solutions.