Regioselective Epoxidation of Allylic Alcohols with Monoperoxyphthalic Acid in Water

Abstract

The epoxidation of olefinic alcohols in water only has been investigated. Simple allylic alcohols are epoxidized readily and with high yields by m-chloroperoxybenzoic acid. Polyolefinic alcohols are epoxidized regioselectively and with excellent yields by monoperoxyphthalic acid controlling the pH of the medium. The reactions have been carried out in the presence and absence of surfactants, and their role has been investigated. © 1992, American Chemical Society. All rights reserved.