| abstract |
A method for synthesizing a compound of the formula (I), wherein an aromatic compound is reacted with butyrolactone, and then neutralized with a base to obtain a compound of the formula (I). The reaction can be performed in the presence of a catalyst. Preferred catalysts are Lewis acids. A preferred product of formula I is 4-phenylbutyric acid, obtained by reacting benzene with butyrolactone in the presence of aluminum chloride, followed by neutralization with a base. |