The synthesis of the title compound (2a) is described, and its reactions with several nucleophiles are described. Amino acid esters underwent addition-cyclization with 2a giving imidazolidones, while cyclohexylamine and sodium azide afforded a guanidine and tetrazole, respectively. The condensation of N-carbobenzyloxyglycine with 2a required a high temperature and gave only pyrolysis products.