The synthesis of phenol derivatives from aryl halides is commonly performed with environmentally toxic solvents and reagents. Phenols are ubiquitous in biologically active compounds, natural products, and commercial and industrial reagents, and therefore their synthesis is of importance. We present the development of a method utilizing a Pd catalyst in a solution of NaOH in a 10% aqueous polyethylene glycol-2000 solution under an air atmosphere.  A range of halogenated benzene derivatives (Cl, Br and I) are converted to the corresponding phenol derivatives. PEG-2000 is a biocompatible and biodegradable co-solvent polymer that allows for the use of a less corrosive base than known methods. These conditions allow for one-pot two-reaction sequences for both benzylic oxidation or ether synthesis, allowing for more applications for this reaction’s use and increases the utility of this method.

Aqueous hydroxylation of halobenzene derivatives

Fall 2022 abstracts, posters, and presentations will launch in mid-September.

ACS Fall 2022

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.