Eco-Friendly Mono-1,4-Hydrocyanation of Diarenyl Ketones Using Potassium Hexacyanoferrate(II) as a Cyanide Source

Abstract

A selective mono-1,4-hydrocyanation of 10 diarenyl ketones using potassium hexacyanoferrate(II) as an eco-friendly cyanide source, potassium hydroxide as a catalyst, and benzoyl chloride as a promoter has been achieved. This protocol has the advantages of a non-toxic cyanide source, a heavy metal-free catalyst, selectivity, very good yields and a simple work-up procedure.