Nitro-Group–Directed Selective Dealkylation

Abstract Nitro-substituted phenolic ethers were successfully selectively dealkylated. The directing effect of the nitro group is supported by the excellent regioselectivities and good yields. These reactions demonstrate that the complexation of AlCl3 with the phenolic nitro group is stronger than with the phenolic ether alone. The mechanism for the selective dealkylation directed by the nitro group is proposed.