Selective Formation of Triose from Formaldehyde Catalyzed by Thiazolium Salt

Article abstract of DOI:10.1021/ja00329a031

In the self-condensation of formaldehyde catalyzed by thiazolium salts, dihydroxyacetone (triose), but not glycolaldehyde, was formed selectively and in high yield.This is of much interest as a facile and novel synthesis of triose from this C1 compound.A mechanism which can account for the selective formation of dihydroxyacetone is described.