Understanding the Scope of Feist–Bénary Furan Synthesis: Chemoselectivity and Diastereoselectivity of the Reaction Between α-Halo Ketones and β-Dicarbonyl Compounds

Feist–Benary furan synthesis, the reaction between α-halocarbonyl and β-dicarbonyl compounds, has been known as an efficient method for generating many different types of furans containing a carbonyl group at C-3. However, it has also been reported that, under similar reaction conditions, intermediate tricarbonyl species could be further converted to alternative furan isomers through the application of a Paal–Knorr synthesis. In this manuscript, we investigate the chemoselectivity and diastereoselectivity of furan synthesis from α-halo ketones and β-dicarbonyl compounds, by carrying out the separation and characterization of the intermediates involved in the reaction. Additionally, a one-pot Feist–Benary furan synthesis from α-halo ketones and β-dicarbonyl compounds without any base or solvent has also been developed.