One-pot synthesis of 1,3,5-tribenzoylbenzenes by three consecutive Michael addition reactions of 1-phenyl-2-propyn-1-ones in pressurized hot water in the absence of added catalysts

Cyclotrimerization of 1‐phenyl‐2‐propyn‐1‐one in pressurized hot water gave 1,3,5‐tribenzoylbenzene in one pot in 65 % yield after 7 min at 200 °C, or in 74 % yield after 60 min at 150 °C. The reaction did not take place in the absence of water, and added base promoted the reaction at 250 °C, suggesting a mechanism of three‐consecutive Michael addition reactions. The reaction rates increased with temperature, but the yield of 1,3,5‐tribenzoylbenzene decreased at the expense of formation of acetophenone as a side product at higher temperatures. p‐Methyl and p‐chloro‐substituents on the phenyl ring retarded and enhanced the reaction, respectively. A mechanism involving the enol of benzoylacetaldehyde at a branching point of the pathway leading to 1,3,5‐tribenzoylbenzene and acetophenone was suggested.