To a solution of compound 2-iodo-5-trifluoromethylphenylmethanol (16.0 g) in ether (130.0 mL) was added phosphorus tribromide under ice cold (5.0 mL), and the reaction solution was stirred at room temperature for 12 hours. Water (200.0 mL) was added to the reaction solution and extracted with ether. The organic layer was washed sequentially with saturated aqueous sodium bicarbonate and saturated brine, and then dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate. The solvent was removed by distillation under reduced pressure to give the title compound. Yellow crystals, yield 16.0 g.
