A NEW SOLVENT-FREE SYNTHESIS OF α,β-UNSATURATED KETONES FROM ACETALS WITH ARYL KETONES UNDER MICROWAVE IRRADIATION

ABSTRACT

A new, rapid and efficient method for the synthesis of α,β-unsaturated ketones under microwave irradiation conditions is described. The process involves the reaction of acetals with aryl ketones in the absence of solvent using Lewis acids as catalysts under microwave irradiation to afford the α,β-unsaturated ketones in good to excellent isolated yields. The reaction mechanism is briefly discussed.

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

This project was supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China and the Northwest Normal University Science and Technology Development Foundation of China.