"A Challenging Classic Coupling: Esterification of Camphoric Acid - a Steric-Hindered Polar Carboxylic Acid and Solanesol - a Long-Chain Nonpolar Alcohol "

Abstract

We have developed two esterification strategies for a challenging coupling between camphoric acid and solanesol to achieve a hybrid natural product - solanesyl camphorate. Both synthetic strategies applied the classic activation mode of carboxylic acid group by anhydride formation to overcome the difficulties caused by steric hindrance and the difference in polarity of two reactants. The first method took advantages of easy prepared camphoric anhydride from camphoric acid, whereas the second one allowed direct esterification via in situ anhydride formation. Moreover, no solvent is required in synthetic process. This work would provide greener approaches for syntheses of hybrid esters from similar natural products.