Reductive Cleavage of 2,2,2-Trichloroethyl Esters with Sodium Telluride

Abstract

Carboxylic acids are regenerated from their 2,2,2-trichloroethyl esters by treatment with sodium telluride in dimethylformamide in smooth conditions and with good yields. The reaction conditions are compatible with other functional and protective groups such as methyl ester, acetate or tert-butyldimethylsilyl ethers.