Convenient Preparation of 'High-Surface Sodium' in Liquid Ammonia: Use in the Acyloin Reaction

Article abstract of DOI:10.1055/s-1997-763

'Sodium on solid support' (5-20 wt.% of Na on NaCl, glass powder, poly(ethylene) and poly(propylene)) can be conveniently prepared via low-temperature (-33°C) deposition of sodium from its solution in liquid ammonia. Use of this reagent in the acyloin reaction of carboxylic esters gave the corresponding products in good yields.