The microwave-promoted alkoxycarbonylation of aryl iodides using reaction vessels pre-pressurized with carbon monoxide is reported. Reactions are performed using 0.1 mol% palladium acetate as catalyst, DBU as base and are complete within 20 - 30 min. A range of aryl iodide substrates can be converted to the corresponding esters using this methodology. Primary and secondary alcohols work well whereas a tertiary alcohol substrate proves less reactive. The potential for scale-up of the reaction has also been explored.
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