Chemo-selective CuPcS catalyzed reduction and esterification of carboxylic acid analogs

Abstract

Nowadays, there is a growing emphasis on environmental considerations, leading to an increased importance being placed on green and sustainable methods in the field of organic chemistry. It is crucial that protocols are not only effective to afford the desired results but also operate under safe conditions, with reduced reaction times, and minimal generation of harmful waste products. Within the realm of synthetic organic chemistry, esterification and reduction of aromatic carboxylic acids hold significant importance as they enable the synthesis of crucial chemicals. To this end, we have developed a chemo-selective reduction method for aryl carboxylic acids. This method utilizes the solid acid catalyst copper phthalocyanine tetrasulfonic acid (CuPcS) and sodium borohydride in tetrahydrofuran (THF) at ambient temperature. In addition, we have developed a new technique for the esterification of carboxylic acids using CuPcS as a catalyst for the chemo-selective reduction method. This novel approach offers several advantages, including reduced reaction times, enhanced safety conditions, and straightforward methods for isolating and recycling CuPcS. These improvements contribute to increased efficiency and sustainability in the esterification process.