Improved synthesis of 2-norbornanone

Abstract

Herein a two-step process for the synthesis of 2-norbornanone with 91 % overall yield has been developed. The addition of sublimation inhibitors suppressed the sublimation of norbornene in the process of sulfuric acid-promoted hydration and increased the yield of 2-norbornanol significantly under mild conditions. Additionally, reuse of sulfuric acid has been achieved. A 4-hydroxy-TEMPO/CuCl/TBN triplecomponent catalyst system for the highly selective aerobic oxidation of 2-norbornanol was developed and displayed high atom efficiency and yield.