The structural framework of 1,2-naphthoquinones is important because compounds with this motif have valuable uses in medicinal chemistry, materials, and REDOX chemistry. However, there few examples of 4-alkoxy and 4-phenoxy substituted 1,2-naphthoquinones that have been synthetized and characterized in the literature.
Therefore, the synthesis of a series of 4-phenoxy substituted 1,2-naphthoquinones has been examined. The reaction between different phenols and Folin’s reagent is performed under two alternative conditions: a conventional aqueous synthesis and a novel mechanochemical synthesis, which has been implemented because it can be accomplished with solid reagents mixed directly together, saving solvents and time. We compare the advantages and disadvantages of two different synthetic methods in terms of yield, selectivity and efficiency by Green Chemistry Metrics. After preliminary data is examined, one can choose which method is best suited for future work. This research develops and optimizes state-of-the-art techniques in spectroscopy and new methods in Green Synthesis for a new library of potentially useful compounds. Moreover, these target molecules are a perfect choice for a undergraduate research project because of their crystallinity, coloration and spectroscopic properties.
The study of the spectroscopic and physicochemical properties of a series of these compounds would allow students to improve their analytical skills and increase their interest in doing research. We stress the importance of research projects for undergraduate students and the value of shared instrumentation for the chemistry program at the University of Costa Rica.

Guy Lamoureux

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