Improved synthesis of d,l-fluorocitric acid

We propose a decagram synthesis of commercially unavailable fluorocitric acid. The synthesis begins with benzyl fluoroacetate, which is converted to dibenzyl 2-fluoro-3-oxosuccinate, followed by condensation with malonic acid or its monobenzyl ester and subsequent hydrogenolysis.

Bulk synthesis of commercially unavailable fluorocitric acid has been proposed, starting from dibenzyl 2-fluoro-3-oxosuccinate.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights
► Synthesis was accomplished starting from dibenzyl 2-fluoro-3-oxosuccinate followed by condensation with malonic acid or its monobenzyl ester.
► Hydrogenolysis instead of hydrolysis gave quantitative yields of d,l-fluorocitric acid.