Process for the preparation of ketones and novel insecticides produced therefrom

摘要

An improved method for the decarbalkoxyation of alkylated beta -keto esters to obtain high yields of ketones. In accordance with the method, decarbalkoxylation of alkylated beta -keto esters is accomplished by heating the esters in the presence of dilute aqueous alkali and an effective amount of a phase-transfer agent. The method produces commercially practical yields of ketone in a manner which is facile, economical and environmentally safe. Novel methylene-linked pyrethroid ketones produced from the improved method exhibit insecticidal activity against various agricultural pests.