Flow Chemistry under Extreme Conditions: Synthesis of Macrocycles with Musklike Olfactoric Properties

Starting from small cyclic ketones, continuous flow synthesis is used to produce medium-sized rings and macrocycles that are relevant for the fragrance industry. Triperoxides are important intermediates in this process and are pyrolyzed at temperatures above 250 degrees C. The synthesis is carried out in two continuously operated flow reactors connected by a membrane-operated separator. The practicality of flow chemistry is impressively demonstrated in this work by the use of hazardous reagent mixtures (30% H2O2, 65% HNO3) and the pyrolysis of no less problematic peroxides. All new macrocycles were tested for their olfactory properties in relation to musk.

Automated summary

This study utilizes continuous flow synthesis to produce medium-sized rings and macrocycles relevant to the fragrance industry, with triperoxides as important intermediates. The synthesis is carried out in two continuously operated flow reactors connected by a membrane-operated separator, demonstrating the practicality of flow chemistry. All new macrocycles have been tested for their olfactory properties related to musk.