Continuous flow oxidation of alkynes with KMnO4 for the synthesis of 1,2-diketone derivatives

Abstract

A continuous-flow process for the conversion of functionalized alkynes to 1,2-diketones and α-keto-carboxylic acids, using KMnO₄ as the oxidizing agent has been developed. The simultaneous use of pulsed sonication combined with an in-line liquid–liquid separation process, avoids clogging of the microfluidic reactor by MnO₂ slurries, ensuring reproducibility and high yields.