Synthesis of vinyl 1,2-diketones

A new route is outlined for preparation of vinyl 1,2-diketones via a three-step sequence. First, allylic alcohols are photooxidized by 1O2 to hydroperoxides, which are reduced to vinyl 1,2-diols. These vinyl 1,2-diols are oxidized to vinyl 1,2-diketones with oxoammonium salts, which are prepared in situ from organic nitroxyl radicals. The new route is short, avoids the use of protecting groups, and is generally applicable to obtain aliphatic or aromatic vinyl 1,2-diketones.