Light-induced reduction of aryl ketones and aldehydes via Meerwein-Ponndorf-Verley-type reaction with isopropanol under Mild reaction conditions

Abstract

In the realm of green chemistry, the quest for increasingly eco-friendly and economically viable methods for the transformation of aldehydes and ketones into alcohols assumes critical importance. In the present study, we introduce an innovative approach that enables the direct and light-induced reduction of aldehydes and ketones to alcohols. This method harnesses isopropanol, serving the dual role of both the reaction solvent and reducing agent, in conjunction with t-BuOK. This operationally straightforward, light-promoted strategy follows the Meerwein-Ponndorf-Verley reduction pathway and demonstrates remarkable efficacy in the synthesis of diverse benzylic alcohol derivatives.