Synthesis of Phenols from Benzoic Acids

Abstract

This chapter presents the procedure for synthesis of phenols from benzoic acids. Phenols are the critical structure unit in many natural products and pharmaceutical molecules. Moreover, they are the essential intermediates to produce a series of complicated skeletons in organic synthesis. Among many conversions based on carboxylic acids, the decarboxylative reaction of benzoic acid with the extrusion of CO 2 has aroused continuous interest from organic chemists, but in most circumstances, high temperatures and transition metals are required to satisfy the reactivity. Herein, a simple and practical method to turn benzoic acid into phenol is demonstrated. This method does not require light sources and transition metal assistance, which can be performed at room temperature. In addition, this method shows good tolerance to various functional groups, which can effectively convert various substituted benzoic acids into the corresponding phenols.