One-flow synthesis of tetrahydrocannabinol and cannabidiol using homo- and heterogeneous Lewis acids

Abstract Continuous flow chemistry holds great potential for the production of biologically relevant molecules. Herein, we present an approach continuous synthesis cannabidiol and tetrahydrocannabinol in a one-flow system. The designed route consists reaction cascade involving Friedel-Crafts alkylation, subsequent ring opening cyclisation up to 45% yield. reactions were successfully performed using both hetero- homogeneous Lewis acids provide yields that are similar comparable batch processes. Graphical abstract