Applications
Baeyer-Villiger oxidation has great synthetic applications as the reaction allows the conversion of ketones to esters. The reaction works well with cyclic and acyclic ketones (Scheme 14). For some examples, see:
 |
 |
Scheme 14 |
Under these conditions, 1,2-diketones proceed reaction to give anhydride (Scheme 15).
 |
Scheme 15 |
Baeyer-Villiger oxidation is a very useful protocol for the synthesis of large ring lactones that are otherwise difficult to prepare by intramolecular esterification of long-chain hydroxyacids (Scheme 16). For example, cyclopentadecanone can be readily oxidized to the corresponding lactone in good yield.
 |
Scheme 16 |