Rapid, Operationally Simple, and Metal‐free NBS Mediated One‐pot Synthesis of 1,2‐Naphthoquinone from 2‐Naphthol

Abstract

Abstract A metal‐free, one‐pot synthesis of 1,2‐naphthoquinone was accomplished from 2‐naphthol by utilizing economically cheap NBS under open air conditions. Initial formation of 1,1‐dibromonaphthalen‐2‐one and subsequent transformation afforded the 1,2‐naphthoquinone. This oxidation was completed within 30 min and had broad substrate scope. Moreover, this system tolerated heterocyclic systems and was also applicable to 1,3‐dicarbonyl systems. This practical approach with short reaction times, a simple workup, and insensitivity to moisture could override the usage of expensive and hazardous oxidizing and metal reagents. magnified image