Organic reactions in a solid matrix-VII sodium on alumina : A convenient reagent for reduction of ketones, esters and oximes

Sodium dispersed on alumina is described and evaluated as a convenient off-the-shelf reagent (in a wax-coated form) for reduction of ketones, esters and oximes. While isopropanol is the preferred proton donor for the reduction of ketones and oximes, t-butanol is the alcohol of choice for the reduction of esters.