In the benzyl alcohol oxidation reaction using gold catalyst, trace amount of unknown product has been detected. GC-MS analysis showed a molecular ion peak at 213,though the mass of suspected product is 214. According to the literature, formation of benzyl hemiacetal (M.W=214) is possible in this reaction. Since the reactions are of small scale and the amount of this particular side product is less, other methods of identifications are impossible. Can anyone help me to identify my molecule?
Have you tried treating the reaction mixture with 2:1 BSTFA/DMF? Reactions of benzaldehyde with water, alcohols, and diols are common. For example, cherry flavors containing benzaldehyde are often formulated in propylene glycol, but part of the benzaldehyde forms the acetal with the PG.
Thanks Michael Päch for your answer. Benzyl benzoate is a major product and detected by GC-MS. This particular side product forms between 1-3 %.
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