Selective synthesis of alpha,beta-unsaturated ketones by dibutyltin dimethoxide-catalyzed condensation of aldehydes with alkenyl trichloroacetates.

Various alpha,beta-unsaturated ketones were stereoselectively synthesized in high yields up to 94% by a condensation reaction between alkenyl trichloroacetates and aldehydes using dibutyltin dimethoxide as a catalyst in the presence of methanol. This process is superior to the classical Claisen-Schmidt condensation with respect to mildness of the base catalyst and product selectivity.