Synthesis of (all‐rac)‐α‐Tocopherol Using Fluorinated NH‐Acidic Catalysts

The synthesis of (all‐rac)‐α‐tocopherol starting from trimethylhydroquinone and isophytol using fluorinated NH‐acidic catalysts is described. Scope and limitations of this type of catalysts are discussed. Advantages of this new procedure are high yield and selectivity, no waste problem and mild reaction conditions. Best results in the synthesis of (all‐rac)‐α‐tocopherol (94% yield) using NH‐acidic compounds are obtained in polar solvents. The used catalyst could be recovered.