Work

Efficient benzoins-to-benzils oxidation under air with reduced iron powder additive

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: The oxidation of benzoins to benzils typically proceeds through a radical pathway, which, however, frequently leads to over-oxidation and reduced product yields. To suppress this side reaction, reduced iron powder was introduced into the oxidative system, which operates under simple and efficient conditions using air as the oxidant in alkaline aqueous media at room temperature. The iron functions by interacting with and removing the hydroperoxide anions responsible for over-oxidation. Our results demonstrate that both Fe(II) and Fe(III) serve as effective additives for this purpose. This iron-mediated approach thus provides a practical and efficient strategy for the aerobic oxidation of benzoins and related aromatic compounds under mild conditions.

Source: Arabian Journal of Chemistry

DOI: 10.25259/ajc_933_2025

Authors: Yicheng Mei, Pu Wang, Baowei Yang, Xiandong Zhai

Institutions: Jiangsu Food and Pharmaceutical Science College, Northeast Forestry University

Language: English

Topic: Oxidative Organic Chemistry Reactions

Subfield: Organic Chemistry

Field: Chemistry

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $1,490

Funder: Jiangsu University