Oxidaition of cyclic benzylic ethers by an electronically tuned nitroxyl radical

The reactivity of an electronically tuned nitroxyl radical catalyst for the oxidation of cyclic benzylic ethers has been investigated. The oxidation of phthalan resulted in oxidative cleavage of the saturated ring to give an aromatic dialdehyde. Additionally, oxidation of isochromans afforded isochromanones, which are often seen in natural products, in a rapid manner. (C) 2021 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.