An efficient and practical synthesis of 2,3-epoxyl-1,3-diaryl-1-propanone by combination of phase transfer catalyst and ultrasound irradiation.

Synthesis of 2,3-epoxyl-1,3-diaryl-1-propanone via epoxidation of chalcone with aqueous sodium hypochlorite was carried out in 62-92% yields using benzyldimethyltetradecyl ammonium chloride as phase transfer catalyst under ultrasound irradiation. Compared to the classical method, the advantages of this method are a safer oxidant, mild conditions, no toxic solvent and shorter reaction time.