Bis(perfluorooctanesulfonyl)imide supported on fluorous silica gel: Application to protection of carbonyls

The immobilization of bis(perfluorooctanesulfonyl)imide (HNPf2) on fluorous silica gel (FSG) and its utilization in protection of carbonyls have been investigated. This system is reasonably general and can be applied to converting several carbonyls to the corresponding acetals and ketals in good to excellent yields. There is no need for the use of anhydrous solvents or inert atmosphere. Recycling studies have shown that the FSG-supported HNPf2 catalyst can be readily recovered and reused several times without significant loss of activity.