The first solvent-free method for the reduction of esters

The importance of the first solvent-free method for the reduction of esters was investigated. Liquid products were isolated from extraction with the minimal amount of ethyl acetate instead of filtration. The high speed attained by the ball-bearing had enough force to make an amorphous mixture of the reagents, which subsequently facilitated a chemical reaction. It was observed that ball milling was a process that could have a large impact on the field of organic synthesis. The results indicated that all the lithium borohydride generated was completely consumed in the reaction. It was concluded that the proposed method could be used for the solvent free reduction of aldehydes and ketones by high speed ball milling (HSBM) in open atmosphere.