Synthesis of phenacyl bromides via K2S2O8-mediated tandem hydroxybromination and oxidation of styrenes in water

Abstract

Non-transition metal-catalyzed synthesis of phenacyl bromides was achieved through K₂S₂O₈-mediated tandem hydroxybromination and oxidation of styrenes. The advantages of this reaction are its excellent functional group compatibility, mild reaction conditions (60 °C) and use of pure water as reaction medium. Based upon experimental observations, a plausible reaction mechanism is proposed.