Transition Metal Free Decarbonyl-Oxidation of 3-Arylbenzofuran-2(3H)-ones: Access to 2-Hydroxy Benzophenones

Abstract

A transition metal-free decarbonyl-oxidation protocol for conversion of 3-Arylbenzofuran-2(3H)-ones to 2-hydroxybenzophenones under mild conditions has been developed. NMR studies confirmed the role of in-situ generated hydroperoxide in the conversion. The protocol was applied to a diverse range of substrates to access the target products in good to excellent yields. A structure-activity study for the 5-substituted-2-hydroxybenzophenones towards UV-protection abilities have been verified by mathematical calculations.