Broadening the catalyst and reaction scope of regio- and chemoselective C-H oxygenation: a convenient and scalable approach to 2-acylphenols by intriguing Rh(II) and Ru(II) catalysis

A unique Rh(II) and Ru(II) catalyzed C-H oxygenation of aryl ketones and other arenes has been developed for the facile synthesis of diverse functionalized phenols. The reaction demonstrates excellent reactivity, regio- and chemoselectivity, good functional group compatibility and high yields. The practicality of this method has been proved by gram-scale synthesis of a few different 2-acylphenols. Its utility has been well exemplified in further applications in heterocycle synthesis and direct modifications of drug Fenofibrate.