Synthesis of α-chloro-β-ketoesters via ytterbium(iii) triflate-mediated decarboxylative Claisen-type condensation

Abstract

A Yb(OTf)₃-mediated decarboxylative Claisen-type condensation is established to access α-chloro-β-ketoesters. Operating under mild conditions, this method delivers products in 78–95% yields while circumventing the functional-group incompatibility and side reactions associated with conventional electrophilic chlorination of β-ketoesters. The synthetic utility of this method is further demonstrated by the synthesis of chlorinated 2-pyrones and asperphenylpyrone analogues, highlighting its potential for constructing structurally diverse and bioactive molecules.