Graphene-catalyzed transacetalization under acid-free conditions

1,2- and 1,3-Diols are readily protected as cyclic acetals and ketals through a graphene-catalyzed transacetalization process. The methodology features an atom economic procedure since quasi-stoichiometric conditions have been developed. Unlike prior systems, the graphene-catalyzed transacetalization is performed under Bronsted and Lewis acid-free conditions and without solvent. Our method has been applied to several volatile compounds that are unsuitable for complex work-up and extensive purification steps. The very unusual catalytic properties of graphene for transacetalization reactions are ascribed to molecular charge transfer between graphene and substrates. (C) 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.