Selective Mono- and Bis-Oxidation of 2,6-bis(Hydroxy-methyl) phenols with Active Manganese Dioxide

Abstract Abstract Selective mono- and bis-oxidations of 2,6-bis(hydroxy-methyl) phenols with active Mn 2 were realized, giving 2-hydroxy-3-hydroxymethyl benzaldehydes and 2-hydroxyisophthalaldehydes in good yields. The influence of oxidant activity, reaction solvent and temperature on the selectivity were investigated, and favorable conditions developed.