Synthesis of α- and/or γ-benzoyloxy-α,β-enones from α-halo-α,β-enones

Sodium benzoate reacts with α-halo-α,β-enones in the presence of tetrabutylammonium hydrogensulfate or 18-Crown-6 to afford α- and/or γ-benzoyloxylated α,β-enones in good yield. The α/γ and γ/γ′ selectivities are dependent on the substrate and reagent.