We aim to devise a technique for estimating 4-alkoxyacetanilides and their analogues by initially transforming them into the respective anilines. These anilines would then undergo diazotization followed by azo coupling with 1-naphthylethylenediamine.

While alkaline hydrolysis was not option, we have encountered limited success with acid hydrolysis using 2-4 N sulfuric acid. As an alternative approach, we are considering hydrazinolysis employing hydrazine monohydrate with catalytic quantities of ammonium iodide. We welcome your suggestions on this matter.