Mesoporous TiO ₂ /Celite‐Supported Hydrolysis/Decarboxylation of Benzyl Meldrum's Acid Derivatives: Application to the Synthesis of Hydrocinnamic Acid Derivatives

Abstract This study describes a method for transforming benzyl Meldrum's acid (BMA) derivatives into aryl propionic acid (hydrocinnamic acid) derivatives using TiO 2 P25 or Celite surfaces under mild conditions. This selective decarboxylation and hydrolysis process is particularly effective for enolizable Meldrum's acid derivatives. A key feature of this transformation is its chemooselectivity, particularly with acetylated BMA derivatives, which yield the corresponding aryl propionic acids. The method offers several advantages, including compatibility with a wide range of structurally diverse aryl propionic acids, reliance on inexpensive materials, elimination of bases and neutralizing agents, and a simplified work‐up procedure.