Anodic oxidation. Part IV. Some reactions with furans

Abstract

The products formed on the electrolysis of solutions of furan, and several α-alkyl-substituted furans, in methanol containing either sodium acetate or sodium methoxide, and in acetic acid containing sodium acetate have been investigated. In methanol 2,5-dihydro-2,5-dimethoxyfurans are formed, but in acetic acid, where furan gives 2,5-diacetoxy-2,5-dihydrofuran, the α-alkylsubstituted furans undergo side-chain acetoxylation. Similar products are formed in the reactions of these furans with lead tetra-acetate in acetic acid and in methanol.