Efficient and regioselective acetylation of benzene derivatives with Ac2O in the presence of mercurytetrathiocyanatocobaltate (II)

Based on Friedel Crafts acylation, an efficient and facile method for the chemo-selective as well as region-selective acylation of substituted benzene derivatives has been developed by using Hg[Co(SCN)4] as catalyst. The reaction is highly chemo-selective as well as region-selective as only acetophenones were obtained, whereas the benzophenones are not formed. The present method is very efficient with simple work up gives the products in good to excellent yield. The reaction is carried out using CHCl3 as solvent at room temperature.  It is anticipated that the present newly developed method will open a gateway for the chemist to prepare the chemo as well as region-selective acetophenones.