I2/TBHP-Promoted Approach to α-Keto Esters from Trifluoromethyl β-Diketones and Alcohols via C-C Bond Cleavage

A metal-free oxidative coupling reaction of trifluoromethyl beta-diketones with alcohols for the synthesis of alpha-keto esters in good to excellent yields has been developed. Preliminary mechanistic studies suggest that an I-2/TBHP promoted sequential iodination, C-C bond cleavage, C-O bond formation and oxidation pathway is involved in this reaction.