Process for the preparation of vinyl ethers

摘要

An improved process for the preparation of vinyl ethers by the coupling reaction of an ester of the formula <IMAGE> with a carbonyl containing compound of the formula <IMAGE> wherein A and R are passive organic groups and OY is a hydroxyl group or OP where P is a protecting group is described. The ester and the carbonyl containing compound are reacted in an organic solvent with a titanium salt, a metallic reducing agent and an amine base to provide the vinyl ether. The reaction is safe and produces high yields. The vinyl ethers are useful for producing dioxetanes which produce light upon triggering.