Iron-Catalyzed Synthesis of Selenoesters from Diselenides and Acyl Chlorides or Acid Anhydrides in the Presence of Magnesium Dust

A novel and efficient synthetic methodology for the iron-catalyzed preparation of selenoesters by the reaction of diselenides with acyl chlorides or acid anhydrides has been developed. In the presence of magnesium dust, iron catalyzes the cleavage of the Se-Se bonds of the diselenides; the subsequent smooth reaction with acyl chlorides or acid anhydrides generates the corresponding selenoesters in good yields. The reaction could be carried out under neutral reaction conditions, and the method is simple, efficient, and practical.