Transition metal-free oxidation of activated alcohols to aldehydes and ketones in 1,1,1,3,3,3-hexafluoro-2-propanol

A simple and convenient procedure for the oxidation of various benzylic, allylic and some aliphatic alcohols to their corresponding carbonyl compounds is described using sodium hypochlorite as the oxidant in 1,1,1,3,3,3-hexafluoro-2-propanol without use of a catalyst or any other additive. The solvent can be readily recovered from reaction products in excellent purity for direct reuse.

Oxidation of various alcohols to their corresponding carbonyl compounds is carried out in HFIP.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights
► In this study we examine the HFIP as a new recyclable medium.
► Oxidation of various alcohols to their corresponding carbonyl compounds is described in HFIP.
► This method has the ability to tolerate a wide variety of substitutions.
► HFIP was easily recovered.