Heterogeneous liquid phase catalysis by metal (IV) phosphates of cyclic ether formation and a reverse Prins reaction

Catalysis of the formation of cyclic ethers from an unsaturated alcohol, 0- methylhept-5-en-2-ol, and of bicyclic ethers from 1,3-diols- by metal (IV) phosphates has been investigated. Good yields were obtained. The diol, 1-(2 -hydroxyethyl)cyclopentanol, was cyclised to form an oxetane ring, which is the intermediate in a reverse Prins reaction and provides an alternative t o reaction through a cyclic five-membered ring. The reactivity of the metal (IV) phosphate catalysts can be contrasted to that of superacidic solvent systems containing fluorosulphuric acid. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.