Dioxomolybdenum Complexes as Excellent Catalysts for the Deoxygenation of Aryl Ketones to Aryl Alkenes

This work describes a new methodology for the selective deoxygenation of aryl ketones to the corresponding aryl alkenes catalyzed by dioxomolybdenum complexes using silanes as reducing agents. The best results were obtained with the system PhSiH3/MoO2Cl2(H2O)(2) (5-10mol%), which was very efficient for the deoxygenation of a large variety of aryl ketones to alkenes in excellent yields. This new methodology has the advantages of using an inexpensive, environmentally friendly, easily prepared, and air-stable catalyst in ether solution.