Improved synthesis of (+/-)-4,12-dihydroxy[2.2]paracyclophane and its enantiomeric resolution by enzymatic methods: planar chiral (R)- and (S)-phanol.

(+/-)-4,12-Dihydroxy[2.2]paracyclophane [(+/-)-PHANOL] is readily prepared from [2.2]paracyclophane by an improved synthetic protocol. Enzymatic kinetic resolution of its bis-acetate proceeds with good enantioselection. Separation, hydrolysis, and recrystallization provides both enantiomers of PHANOL in high enantiopurity.