Integrated Micro-Flow Synthesis Based on Photochemical Wolff Rearrangement

Abstract

The Wolff rearrangement of α-diazo carbonyl compounds has remained important in organic synthesis since its development more than 115 years ago. The risks involved in handling diazo compounds can be minimized by utilizing micro-flow technology. In addition, photochemical Wolff rearrangement can be carried out efficiently with the aid of micro-flow technology. Integrated micro-flow synthesis is therefore well-suited to the preparation of α-diazo carbonyl compounds and their photochemical Wolff rearrangement. This review article summarizes recently reported micro-flow photochemical Wolff rearrangements and their application in integrated micro-flow syntheses.