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Updated: Mar 16, 2026

Synthesis of Esters Via a Greener Steglich Esterification in Acetonitrile
Published on: October 30, 2018
Synthesis of esters via sp(3) C-H functionalisation
Ganesh Majji1, Saroj K Rout, Suresh Rajamanickam
1Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati 781039, India. patel@iitg.ernet.in.
This review highlights recent advances in synthesizing esters through oxidative C-H functionalization. It covers methods using transition metal or metal-free catalysts with oxidants for ester synthesis from novel precursors.
Area of Science:
- Organic Chemistry
- Catalysis
- Synthetic Methodology
Background:
- Ester synthesis is crucial in organic chemistry.
- Oxidative C-O bond formation via sp(3) C-H functionalization offers a direct route to esters.
- Developing efficient methods from unconventional precursors is an ongoing challenge.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent advancements in sp(3) C-H functionalization strategies for ester synthesis.
- To discuss methods employing transition metal and metal-free catalysts.
- To explore the use of various oxidants and unconventional precursors.
Main Methods:
- Focuses on literature review of sp(3) C-H functionalization reactions.
- Categorizes methods based on catalyst type (transition metal/metal-free) and oxidants.
- Analyzes reaction mechanisms for ester formation.
Main Results:
- Numerous examples of ester synthesis via sp(3) C-H functionalization are presented.
- Diverse classes of esters can be synthesized using these strategies.
- Mechanisms for various ester formation pathways are elucidated.
Conclusions:
- Oxidative sp(3) C-H functionalization is a powerful tool for ester synthesis.
- The use of unconventional precursors broadens synthetic accessibility.
- Continued development in catalysis and oxidation is key for future advancements.
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