Phase-Transfer Catalysis: Acylation of β-Dicarbonyl Compounds

Abstract

The alkylation of β-dicarbonyl compounds under phase-transfer conditions has been studied in detail and, in virtually all of the reported examples, the C-alkylation products have been found to predominate.^1–6 Only when the reaction rate is slow is there any evidence for O-alkylation as, for example, when there is steric hindrance to the approach of the alkylating agent to the carbanionic centre.^1,7 There is no record, however, of the corresponding acylation reactions.