Chemoselective synthesis of geminal diacetates (acylals) using eco-friendly reusable propylsulfonic acid based nanosilica (SBA-15-Ph-PrSO3H) under solvent-free conditions

An expeditious method for the acetylation of aldehydes by mesoporous solid sulfonic acid (SBA-15-Ph-PrSO3H) under solvent-free reaction conditions was described. The route furnished selectively and in excellent yields the corresponding 1,1-diacetates starting from aldehydes and acetic anhydride using the environmentally friendly catalyst. The catalyst was found to be highly active and selective and could be recycled several times. (c) 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.