Abstract
ZrOCl2 center dot H2O catalyzed environmentally benign synthesis of isobenzofuran-1(3H)-ones are described. ZrOCl2 center dot H2O appeared to be an excellent catalyst for the condensation and reactions. Reaction of phthalaldehydic acid (2-carboxybenzaldehyde) with methylaryl and cyclic ketones was initiated by condensation and occurred in one step providing excellent yields (90-98%). (C) 2010 Published by Elsevier B.V. on behalf of Chinese Chemical Society.