An efficient synthesis of benzyl bromides from aromatic aldehydes using polymethylhydrosiloxane and (bromodimethyl)sulfonium bromide or N-bromosuccinimide

Polymethylhydrosiloxane (PMHS) in combination with (bromodimethyl)sulfonium bromide or NBS has been utilized for the first time for reductive bromination of aromatic aldehydes at room temperature to afford the corresponding benzyl bromides in excellent yields.