Mild and efficient synthesis of 1,8-naphthalide and 1,8-naphthalenedimethanol

Mild and efficient procedures have been developed for synthesis of 1,8-naphthalide and 1,8-naphthalenedimethanol. In an ice-water bath, 1,8-naphthalide was prepared from 1,8-naphthlic anhydride using LiAlH4 as reducing agent. 1,8-Naphthalenedimethanol was obtained with good yield from reduction of 1,8-naphthalic anhydride by LiAlH4 and Lewis acids at room temperature. The effects of various factors on the reduction of 1,8-naphthalic anhydride with LiAlH4 were investigated.