Abstract

An efficient protocol for the synthesis of phenols from arylboronic acids has been developed by using t-butyl hydroperoxide (TBHP) as oxidant in water-ethanol as a binary reaction medium. The reaction is metal and additive free and does not require strong basic conditions. The developed protocol has a broad substrate scope and functional group compatibility. Notably the mild conditions, shorter reaction time, good to excellent yields and eco-friendly reaction medium are some important features of the developed method.

Key words: arylboronic acids; tert-butyl hydroperoxide (TBPH); phenols; green method.