Metal-free protocol for the synthesis of α-bromo ketones from olefins using TsNBr2

Abstract TsNBr 2 reacts readily with olefins to produce α-bromo ketones at room temperature. The synthesis was carried out by treating an olefin with TsNBr 2 in acetone–water mixture in 30:1 ratio. Excellent yield of corresponding α-bromo ketone could be achieved within a short time.