DDQ-Mediated Direct Cross-Dehydrogenative-Coupling (CDC) between Benzyl Ethers and Simple Ketones

Abstract

A direct Cross-Dehydrogenative-Coupling (CDC) between benzyl ethers and simple ketones was developed without using any metal catalyst. By using DDQ, various benzyl ethers and simples ketones were coupled together directly to form beta-alkoxyl ketones efficiently. A mechanism in which the DDQ serves the double roles of an oxidizing agent and an organomediator was proposed.