One-pot carbonyl reduction and carbonate formation using sodium borohydride in dialkyl carbonate solvents

Article abstract of DOI:10.1016/j.tetlet.2019.151203

Preparation of mixed carbonates proceeded in one step from ketones and aldehydes via treatment with NaBH₄ in dimethyl or diethyl carbonate solvent at elevated temperatures. This is an efficient and convenient alternative to the traditional two-step sequence of carbonyl reduction to alcohol and subsequent carbonate formation by treatment with an alkyl chloroformate. 25 examples are presented from 49 to 92% yield, highlighting the versatility of this reaction.