Simple and Efficient Purification Protocol of 9-(Trifluoroacetyl)anthracene from Anthracene

Abstract

A protocol has been developed to purify 9-(trifluoroacetyl)anthracene from anthracene, the major impurity associated in its synthesis. The protocol utilizes a chemoselective thermal Diels–Alder reaction, employing maleic anhydride as the dienophile. The resulting Diels–Alder adduct can then be removed by extractive workup followed by recrystallization to give 9-(trifluoroacetyl)anthracene with ≥99% chemical purity.

Keywords:

• Anthracene
• 9-anthryltrifluoromethyl ketone
• Diels–Alder reaction purification strategy
• 9-(trifluoroacetyl)anthracene

ACKNOWLEDGMENT

Dr. Bill Boulanger, the owner of Obiter Research, is thanked for his financial contribution.