Strategies for ortho-tert-Butylation of Phenols and their Analogues

Abstract

A new general process for constructing ortho-tert-butyl phenols is presented within the context of other known methods. All are briefly evaluated with regards to regioselectivity, efficiency, and functional group tolerance. In addition, we present an assortment of tert-butyl substrates accessed through o-QM chemistry. Our conclusion is that the o-QM process provides greater yields, flexibility, and generality than most other known methods for delivering ortho-tert-buytlated phenols and their derivatives.1 Introduction2 Friedel–Crafts Alkylation3 Addition of t-Bu– or t-Bu• to Carbonyl Compounds4 ipso-SNAr Reactions of Aryl Methoxy and tert-Butylsulfoxide Moieties5 Metal-Mediated Coupling of Aryl Bromides6 Applications of o-Quinone Methides (o-QMs)7 Conclusion