The catalytic synthesis of high molecular weight aliphatic ketones by reductive condensation of lower molecular weight ketones was achieved by using CO in the presence of a multifunctional catalyst containing copper dispersed on alumina. The useful combination of condensation, water gas shift and hydrogenation reactions in a one-pot reaction allowed high yields of methylisobutylketone from acetone. (c) 2007 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.