Palladium is known for its efficient and versatile reactivity in the synthesis of a variety of interesting molecules. Recently, a new oxidative intramolecular palladium-catalyzed reaction has been explored that allows for the synthesis of α,β-unsaturated lactones by the addition of a carboxylic acid and aryl group across a carbon-carbon bond. The reaction design could be used to substitute for more dangerous, inefficient, or hazardous procedures that would otherwise be utilized in the synthesis of the lactone products. Starting materials were synthesized by the efficient combination of glyoxylic acid and aromatic compounds followed by allylation. The palladium-catalyzed reaction was optimized through careful study of parameters such as oxidant, reaction time, solvent, palladium source, and concentration to yield optimized conditions. Products were confirmed by NMR spectroscopy and IR. Further studies into the substrate scope and the chemical mechanism are underway.

Exploring and optimizing new palladium-catalyzed reactions

249th National Meeting (2015)

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