Continuous flow process development for the synthesis of an industrial raw material via solvent-free aromatic Claisen rearrangement

Abstract

A high-temperature continuous flow protocol is reported for the intensified synthesis of an important industrial raw material via aromatic Claisen rearrangement of the corresponding diallyl ether precursor. The process takes advantage of solvent-free conditions, thereby maximizing productivity whilst reducing cost and environmental impact. By precise control over reaction temperature and residence times, a high-yielding and selective synthesis is achieved that ensures improved safety and scalability of the exothermic transformation compared with earlier batch methodologies.

Graphical Abstract