Efficient continuous-flow HD exchange reaction of aromatic nuclei in D₂O/2-PrOH mixed solvent in a catalyst cartridge packed with platinum on carbon beads

Herein, a continuous-flow deuteration methodology for various aromatic compounds is developed based on heterogeneous platinum-catalyzed hydrogen-deuterium exchange. The reaction entails the transfer of a substrate dissolved in a mixed solvent of 2-propanol and deuterium oxide into a catalyst cartridge packed with platinum on carbon beads (Pt/CB). Pt/ CB could be continuously used without significant deterioration of catalyst activity for at least 24 h. Deuteration proceeded within 60 s of the substrate solutions being passed through the Pt/CB layer in the Pt/CB-packed cartridge.