Selenium‐Catalyzed Reductive Carbonylation of 2‐Nitrophenols to2‐Benzoxazolones

Abstract

Abstract 2‐Benzoxazolones or 2‐benzimidazolones are synthesized in moderate to good yields in the presence of a base (KOH, NaOH, KOAc, NEt 3 , DBU) at atmospheric pressure or under a high pressure of CO by one‐pot reductive carbonylation of 2‐nitrophenols or 2‐nitroaniline in the presence of selenium as catalyst. Besides the effect of base, the effects of solvent and temperature on the reaction were investigated at high or atmospheric pressure. Contrasting results were obtained for 2‐benzoxazolones or 2‐benzimidazolone at high and atmospheric pressures. Moreover, phase‐transfer catalysis was exhibited. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2005)