Scalable and Selective Preparation of 3,3′,5,5′-Tetramethyl-2,2′-biphenol

Biphenols are indispensable building blocks in ligand systems for organic catalysis. 3,3′5,5′-Tetramethyl-2,2′-biphenol is a particular versatile motif in different catalytic systems. We developed an easy to perform and scalable process to give access to large quantities of this important building block by the use of selenium dioxide, a common and readily available oxidizer.

Frontispiece: A Novel Cathode Material for Cathodic Dehalogenation of 1,1‐Dibromo Cyclopropane Derivatives

A Novel Cathode Material for Cathodic Dehalogenation of 1,1-Dibromo Cyclopropane Derivatives.

Leaded bronze turned out to be an excellent cathode material for the dehalogenation reaction of cyclopropanes without affecting the strained molecular entity. With this particular alloy, beneficial properties of lead cathodes are conserved, whereas the corrosion of cathode is efficiently suppressed. The solvent in the electrolyte determines whether a complete debromination reaction is achieved or if the process can be selectively stopped at the monobromo cyclopropane intermediate. The electroorganic conversion tolerates a variety of functional groups and can be conducted at rather complex substrates like cyclosporine A. This approach allows the sustainable preparation of cyclopropane deriva…