Efficient one-step conversion of tetrahydropyranyl ethers into acetates and formates in the presence of potassium dodecatungstocobaltate K5CoW12O40•3H2O

Tetrahydropyranyl ethers derived from primary alcohols were directly and efficiently converted into the corresponding acetates and formates by the action of ethyl acetate, acetic acid, acetic anhydride, and ethyl formate in the presence of a catalytic amount of potassium dodecatungstocobaltate K(5C)oW(12)O(40)center dot 3H(2)O. Tetrahydropyranyl ethers derived from secondary alcohols and phenols can also be transformed into the corresponding acetates with the use of acetic anhydride, but K5CoW12O40 center dot 3H(2)O was ineffective for esterification with ethyl acetate, acetic acid, and ethyl formate.