HYDROXYLATION OF BETA-DICARBONYLS WITH ZIRCONIUM CATALYSTS

摘要

The present invention pertains to a process for preparing a compound of Formula I that is achiral, racemic or enantiomerically enriched at the hydroxylation center indicated by comprising contacting a compound of Formula II with an oxidant selected from oxygen, hydrogen peroxide, peracids or alkyl hydroperoxides in the presence of a zirconium complex, wherein R<1>, R<2> and R<3> are as defined in the disclosure. This invention also pertains to zirconium complexes useful in this procedure comprising zirconium and a ligand of Formula III or its enantiomer wherein J, R<6> and n are as defined in the disclosure. This invention further pertains to a compound of Formula III or its enantiomer.