Activation of aqueous hydrogen peroxide for non-catalyzed dihydroperoxidation of ketones by azeotropic removal of water

Abstract

Cyclic and acyclic ketones were selectively converted to gem-dihydroperoxides in 72–99% yield with 30% aq. hydrogen peroxide by azeotropic distillation of water from the reaction mixture without any catalyst. The reactions were more selective than with 100% H₂O₂ and due to neutral conditions also less stable products could be obtained.