Synthesis of alpha-fluoro-beta-lactones and their thermal conversion to 1-fluoroalkenes

alpha-Fluoro-beta-lactones have been synthesized and isolated for the first time from alpha-fluoro-beta-hydroxy acids by using the couple TsCl/DMAP as lactonization agent. A detailed description of the synthesis and spectroscopic properties of alpha-fluoro-beta-lactones is presented. Preliminary results indicate that thermolysis of these new beta-lactones produces 1-fluoroalkenes.