Cobalt-catalyzed alkoxycarbonylation of ethers: Direct synthesis of a-oxy esters from phenols and alcohols

A cobalt-catalyzed direct alkoxycarbonylation of ethers has been accomplished. This new catalytic system allows the use of ethers, important building blocks in organic synthesis, as the carbonylation substrates. A variety of phenols and alcohols were transformed to the corresponding alpha-oxy ester derivatives in high yields with excellent functional group tolerance. In addition, several pharmaceutical and bioactive molecule related compounds were also suitable substrates for this carbonylation process, the target products were obtained in good yields. (c) 2022 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

A cobalt-catalyzed direct alkoxycarbonylation of ethers has been successfully achieved, enabling ethers to be used as carbonylation substrates in organic synthesis. The reaction exhibits high yields and excellent tolerance towards functional groups, and it is applicable to various pharmaceutical and bioactive molecule related compounds, leading to good product yields.