A benzyl protecting group is often used to protect alcohols in synthetic reactions. Benzyl groups are usually introduced via the Williamson S_N2 reaction, requiring a benzyl halide, a base and a solvent such as DMF.

• Benzyl protection can also be achieved under non basic conditions (via the fluoboric acid catalyzed reaction of phenyldiazomethane) if necessary. ^[1]

• Reagents: Benzyl Bromide or Benzyl Chloride, Base (NaOH, KOH, K2CO3, etc.), Solvent (DMSO, DMF, etc.)
• Reactant: Alcohol
• Product: Benzyl Protected Alcohol
• Type of Reaction: S_N2

Mechanism

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Related Compounds