Microwave-assisted deuterium exchange reactions for the preparation of reactive intermediates

Deuterium labelling of a number of ketones was achieved on a preparative scale by a microwave-assisted deuterium exchange reaction with D2O/CF3COOD. The reaction was rapid (<15 min) and highly isotope-efficient (ca. 100%), even though deuterium incorporation can be decreased during work-up (85–90%). No exchange reaction was observed for aryl protons of aromatic ketones.