Synthesis of benzofurans from the cyclodehydration of α-phenoxy ketones mediated by Eaton’s reagent

Cyclodehydration of α-phenoxy ketones promoted by Eaton’s reagent (phosphorus pentoxide–methanesulfonic acid) is used to prepare 3-substituted or 2,3-disubstituted benzofurans with moderate to excellent yields under mild conditions. The method provides a facile access to benzofurans from readily available starting materials such as phenols and α-bromo ketones. The reaction is highly efficient, which is attributed to the good reactivity and fluidity of Eaton’s reagent. The reaction can be applied to prepare naphthofurans, furanocoumarins, benzothiophenes, and benzopyrans.