Iron-catalyzed ketonization of 2-aryl-1,1-dibromoalkenes with KOAc: Synthesis of α-acetoxy aryl ketones via a Michael-like addition process

A novel and convenient iron-catalyzed ketonization of 2-aryl-1,1-dibromoalkenes with KOAc has been achieved. A series of α-acetoxy aryl ketones were prepared with moderate yields via 2-carbon position functionalization of 2-aryl-1,1-dibromoalkenes.