Novel α-ketoesters from β-diketones via a vanadium-mediated tandem transformation under an oxygen atmosphere

•Novel α-ketoesters were conveniently synthesized from β-diketones via vanadium.•These α-ketoesters could be prepared under additive-free, mild conditions using O2.•DFT calculations were performed to provide insights into the tandem transformation.

Novel α-ketoesters were conveniently synthesized from acetylacetone and analogs via a vanadium-mediated one-pot tandem process. These advanced α-ketoesters could be selectively prepared under additive-free, mild conditions, viz., 1 atm O2 pressure and 50–80 °C. DFT calculations were performed to provide insights into the detailed mechanism of the tandem transformation.

Graphical abstractNovel α-ketoesters were conveniently synthesized from β-diketones via a vanadium-mediated one-pot tandem process. These advanced α-ketoesters could be selectively prepared under additive-free, mild conditions, viz., 1 atm O2 pressure and 50–80 °C. DFT calculations were performed to provide insights into the detailed mechanism of the tandem transformation.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slide