RP/I2 reaction

[PolytheneSam]

Here's a process I've seen a couple times in various experimental organic chemistry books (including the one I've had for 25 years):  the reduction of benzilic acid with red phosphorus and iodine.  Also see US patent 3084099.

https://www.thevespiary.org/rhodium/Rhodium/hive/hiveboard/picproxie_docs/000235880-file_goy2.jpg" title="View this image">

From Elementary Laboratory Experiments in Organic Chemistry by R. Adams and J. R. Johnson, The Macmillan company, 1945

Also see: 

Post 199822 (missing)

(PolytheneSam: "Re: better understanding", Newbee Forum)

Post 199835 (missing)

(PolytheneSam: "Re: better understanding", Newbee Forum)
http://www.geocities.com/dritte123/PSPF.html

[dickdastardly]

So where do YOu get Benzilic Acid at

[Rhodium]

Synthesis of benzilic acid:

https://www.thevespiary.org/rhodium/Rhodium/chemistry/dimenoxadol.html

(at the bottom of the page). What do you need it for?