Oxidation of Alcohols to Aldehydes and Ketones Using a Catalytic Pairing of a Nitroxide and Nitric Acid

Abstract

A methodology for the oxidation of alcohols to aldehydes and ketones is presented. The approach employs catalytic quantities of a nitroxide and nitric acid, with no additives or metal catalysts being required. It proves effective for a range of aromatic, heteroaromatic, and aliphatic alcohol substrates, the desired products being formed in good to excellent yield. In the case of primary alcohols, the oxidation can be stopped at the aldehyde without concomitant formation of the corresponding carboxylic acid.