Fluoro-ketones IV. Synthesis of phenylperfluoroalkyl ketones - mechanism of reaction between phenyllithium and fluoroesters

Although fluorine containing ketones (R_fC(O)R_f and R_fC(O)R, R_f = perfluoroalkyl) have been prepared from the reaction between organolithium reagents and perfluoroalkyl esters, the reaction has not found general applicability. Variable yields of ketones and co-production of secondary and tertiary alcohol by-products have in most instances been experienced. We have examined in more detail the factors e.g., temperature, mode of addition and perfluoroalkyl ester structure which influence ketone product and by-products formation. By controlling experimental conditions excellent yields of C₆H₅C(O)R_f compounds can be attained. A lithium salt of a hemiketal (II) has been isolated and shown to be the active intermediate in the production of the ketone. The stability of the salt and its potential reaction with the solvent dictates the type of reaction products. Low temperature favors stability of the lithium salt of the hemiketal whereby high yields of ketones are produced on hydrolysis.