One-pot synthesis of α -bromoacetals of ketones from secondary alcohols and 1,3-dibromo-5,5-dimethylhydantoin (DBDMH) in ethylene glycol.

α -Bromoacetals of ketones were prepared from various secondary alcohols with 1,3-dibromo-5,5-dimethylhydantoin (DBDMH) and ethylene glycol through oxidation, bromination, and acetalization in one pot without the use of other catalysts under mild conditions. The effects of DBDMH, the solvent, and N-bromosuccinimide on the reaction were investigated. Under the optimal conditions, most α -bromoacetals of ketones were obtain in 90–98% yields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]