NEW MATERIAL:A 3-subslituted acetophenone of formula I: (X's are H, or may form O atom).

EXAMPLE: 3-Benzylacetophenone.

USE: An intermediate for the synthesis of 2-(3-benzoylphenyl)-propionic acid, an antiphlogistic and analgesic.

PROCESS: A 3-substituted benzoic acid of formula II is reacted with a halogenating agent, e.g. thionyl chloride, to give an acid halide of formula III: (Y is halogen), which is coupled with a malonic diester to form a 3-substituted benzoylmalonic ester of formula IV: (R is lower alkyl group). The ester is decomposed in a mixture of acids, e.g. acetic and conc. sulfuric acids, under heating to give the compound of formula I.