Chemoselective synthesis of geminal diacetates (acylals) using eco-friendly reusable propylsulfonic acid based nanosilica (SBA-15-Ph-PrSO3H) under solvent-free conditions

• Chemoselective synthesis of acylals from aldehydes in the presence of ketones.
• Solvent-free reaction conditions.
• Exceedingly simple workup and uncomplicated recovery (nine reaction cycles).
• Deprotection of resulting acylals in water as a green solvent.
• Outstanding thermal stability (up to 200 °C) of SBA-15-Ph-Pr-SO3H.

An expeditious method for the acetylation of aldehydes by mesoporous solid sulfonic acid (SBA-15-Ph-PrSO3H) under solvent-free reaction conditions was described. The route furnished selectively and in excellent yields the corresponding 1,1-diacetates starting from aldehydes and acetic anhydride using the environmentally friendly catalyst. The catalyst was found to be highly active and selective and could be recycled several times.

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