Dennis Solas

Hypochlorous Acid. A Synthesis of α-Chloro-β-Lactones

Abstract Herein we report that the reaction of hypochlorous acid with certain α,β-unsaturated acids in a two phase system1,2 affords α-chloro-β-lactones3,4 in poor to fair yield. Thus, β-lactones 4, 5, and 6 are obtained from acids 1, 2 and 3, respectively, where the β-carbon of the acid is disubstituted.

Lithiation of Pyrrol-2-Acetic Acids. Synthesis of 2-Alkylpyrroles.

Abstract N-methylpyrrol-2-acetic acid and pyrrol-2-acetic acid were converted into di- and trianions on reaction with two equivalents of lithium diisopropylamide or three equivalents of t-butyllithium, respectively. Reaction of the anions with one equivalent of an alkyl bromide or iodide gave the corresponding mono-α-substituted acetic acids which on thermal decarboxylation gave pure 2-alkylpyrroles.