Esters as Both Alkylating and Acylating Reagents: PCl 3 ‐Promoted Friedel‐Crafts Reaction in One‐Pot

Abstract An efficient PCl 3 ‐promoted Friedel‐Crafts reaction using esters as both alkylating and acylating reagents has been developed. By using a PCl 3 /I 2 combination, various esters underwent Friedel‐Crafts alkylation and acylation reactions with arenes in one‐pot, readily producing two kinds of products aromatic ketones and alkyl aromatics by one step in good yields. The Friedel‐Crafts alkylation and acylation of arene with 4‐formylbenzoate derivatives in one‐pot have also been achieved. This novel strategy features high step economy, low‐cost, metal‐free and simple reaction conditions.