How is phenyl isocyanide (CAS: 931-54-4) typically synthesized?

Phenyl isocyanide can be synthesized by the reaction of phenyl isothiocyanate with sodium hydroxide, followed by acidification to form phenyl isocyanide. The reaction is typically carried out in a water medium, and the yield is around 80-85%. This method uses sodium hydroxide as a catalyst and requires appropriate safety measures to handle the strong base and the subsequent acidification step.