Silica gel catalyzed α-bromination of ketones using N-bromosuccinimide: An easy and rapid method

An easy and rapid method for the α-bromination of ketones using N-bromosuccinimide (NBS) catalyzed by silica gel in methanol under reflux conditions was developed. The expected products were formed in excellent isolated yields within a short period of time (5–20 min). Major advantages of the present procedure include use of inexpensive and readily available catalyst, exclusion of pre- and post-chemical treatment of catalyst and use of methanol as solvent instead of ethers and chlorinated solvents.

Graphical abstractSilica gel catalyzed α-bromination of ketones using N-bromosuccinimide in methanol under reflux conditions provided high yields of monobrominated products. The present method proved to be more productive for large scale (≥100 g scale) applications both in chemical and pharmaceutical industries.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slide