Solvent and catalysis-free microwave transesterification of β-ketoesters and its application in the production of long-chain ester monastrol derivatives

Abstract

In this work we report a detailed study of the transesterification reaction of β-ketoesters in solvent- and catalyst-free conditions, using microwave irradiation. Different alcohols, including fatty alcohols, were tested to optimize the reaction conditions. Good yields, without the formation of secondary products, were observed at 150 °C. The compounds obtained were used as starting substrates in a Biginelli-type multicomponent synthesis to obtain long-chain ester monastrol derivatives, at 80 °C, with good yields, and generally free of secondary products.