Decomposition of alpha-hydroxyaryl ketones and characterization of some unusual products.

Alpha-Hydroxyaryl ketones such as 2-hydroxypropiophenone and 1-(2,4-difluorophenyl)-2-hydroxy-1-propanone, the key intermediates in the preparation of antifungal agents, decompose into oxidized, rearranged, and condensed products. These products were isolated and characterized. The possible mechanisms for the formation of the products are discussed.