Self-Coupling of Secondary Alcohols and α-Alkylation of Methyl Ketones with Secondary Alcohols by Pt/CeO2 Catalyst

Transition metal-loaded metal oxides are tested for C-C self-coupling of 2-octanol to a higher ketone at 140 degrees C. Among various catalysts, Pt/CeO2 shows the highest activity and shows good reusability. Pt/CeO2 is effective for the self-coupling of various aliphatic secondary alcohols and alpha-alkylation of methyl ketones with aliphatic secondary alcohols. A possible reaction mechanism is discussed.