Catalyst-free alkanoylation of aromatic rings via arylstannanes. Scope and limitations

The reaction of alkanoyl chlorides with arylstannanes in 1,2-dichlorobenzene (180 °C) is a simple and direct route for the catalyst-free and regioselective synthesis of tertiary alkyl aryl ketones in good to excellent isolated yields (55-77%). Nevertheless, under similar conditions, reactions carried out with alkanoyl chlorides bearing α-hydrogens render only the product of protodestannylation.