Solvent-free mechanochemical synthesis of diacylfuroxans

Acetophenones with a variety of substituents could be converted to diacylfuroxans in a solvent-free reaction by combining the reagents Fe(NO3)3·9H2O and P2O5 under high-speed ball milling. This reaction was facile and eco-friendly, and exhibits advantages in terms of better toleration, safety, and easier operation. The nitrate acid and nitrogen dioxide generated in situ should play a major role in this mechanochemical reaction.