A primary amine heated with CS2 in presence of excess of HgCl2 gives isothiocyanate. The reaction is called:
The reaction of a primary amine with carbon disulfide (CSâ‚‚) in the presence of excess mercuric chloride (HgClâ‚‚) to form an isothiocyanate is known as the Hofmann's mustard oil reaction. This reaction is used to synthesize isothiocyanates, which have a characteristic pungent odor.