| abstract |
The invention relates to a process for the preparation of phenylalkane acids which are useful as intermediates for the preparation of phenylalkanoic acid m-phenoxybenzyl esters, which themselves are valuable insecticidal and acaricidal agents. For the preparation of alpha-isopropyl-4-trifluoromethoxyphenylacetyl chloride, a solution of alpha-isopropyl-4-trifluoromethoxyphenylacetic acid and thionyl chloride in benzene is heated to boiling under reflux. Evaporation of solvent and excess thionyl chloride gives the title compound, which is then reacted with alpha-cyano-m-phenoxybenzyl alcohol, pyridine and ether to give alpha-cyano-m-phenoxybenzyl-alpha-isopropyl-4-trifluoromethoxyphenylacetate. |