Pd-Catalyzed Selective One-Step Synthesis of (β-Naphthoic Acid from Naphthalene and CO

Abstract β-Naphthoic acid can be prepared in more than 80% selectivity via one-step carboxylation of naphthalene with carbon monoxide by the Pd/phenanthroline catalyst systems. Pd(0) species such as Pd black are found to be active catalysts as well as Pd(OAc)2. Addition of O2 increases the yield.