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Publication Date

2025-5

First Advisor

Alexandra E. Strom

Document Type

Honors Project

Degree Name

Bachelor of Arts

Department

Chemistry

Keywords

organic, synthesis, catalyst, methodology

Abstract

Naphthalenes are fundamental scaffolds in organic synthesis, widely utilized in pharmaceuticals due to their versatility in drug design. Traditional methods for their synthesis often require expensive catalysts, harsh conditions, or limited substitution patterns, restricting their broader applicability. This study explores an iron-catalyzed cyclization strategy that enables the selective formation of naphthalenes with diverse substitution patterns, addressing these limitations. Using FeBr₃ as a sustainable and cost-effective catalyst, this method facilitates naphthalene formation under mild conditions in 1,2-DCE at room temperature within two hours. This work encompasses the synthesis of ketone precursors, optimization of reaction conditions, and evaluation of substrate scope to determine the extent and selectivity of the transformation.

Rights

©2025 Breanna Sprague. Access limited to the Smith College community and other researchers while on campus. Smith College community members also may access from off-campus using a Smith College log-in. Other off-campus researchers may request a copy through Interlibrary Loan for personal use.

Language

English

Comments

108 pages: color illustrations, charts. Includes bibliographical references (pages 104-108).

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