Catalytic Condensation of Ketones with Carboxylic Acids

Condensation of acetone with isobutyric acid catalyzed by zirconia or titania yields methyl isopropyl ketone. The formal transfer of the methyl group most likely results from acetone enolization on metal oxides, followed by condensation and retro-condensation, similar to the mechanism of decarboxylative ketonization of carboxylic acids via beta-ketoacids formation.