Synthesis of esters from aldehydes or carboxylic acids with dichloromethane, dichloroethane or dichloropropane under mild conditions

Abstract

Dichloromethane (DCM) as a C1 source has been discovered: methylene diesters from DCM and carboxylic acids or aldehydes with TBHP in water were efficiently synthesized. The reactions proceed under mild conditions and afford both aliphatic and aromatic methylene diesters in good to excellent yields (up to >99%). 2-Chloroethyl benzoates and 3-chloropropyl benzoates are easily obtained in the same way from 1,2-dichloroethane and 1,3-dichloropropane, respectively, in good to excellent yields.