A number of β-keto esters were synthesized by Pd-catalyzed carbonylation of halomethylketones
in the presence of tributylamine in 68-86% yields. The reaction is completed in 2
hours at 110 °C and 10 bar CO pressure. Chloromethylketones are carbonylated selectively
while 2-bromoacetophenone is partly reduced to acetophenone as a byproduct. The reaction
can be carried out at atmospheric pressure though the rate stays low. The reaction
mechanism is discussed.
halomethylketones - β-keto esters - carbonylation - palladium - catalysis