Two-Step Synthesis of Furans by Mn(III)-Promoted Annulation of Enol Ethers.
Enol ethers, β-dicarbonyl compounds and the Mn(III) reagent Mn3O(OAc)7 react under mild conditions to form 1-alkoxy-1.2-dihydrofurans in good (70-98%) yields. The latter are readily converted to furans by acid-catalyzed elimination of ROH.