the present invention relates to a novel process for the preparation of 1 -- 2 , 2 , 2 - trifluoromethyl ethanones from 1 - halo - 3 - trialkylsilanyl - benzenes . 1 -- 2 , 2 , 2 - trifluoromethyl ethanones are useful for the treatment of alzheimer &# 39 ; s disease and senile dementia . in addition , the present invention relates to a novel process for purifying 1 -- 2 , 2 , 2 - trifluoromethyl ethanones utilizing a novel extraction method .