Zwitterion-Catalyzed Ring-Opening of Epoxides with Carboxylic Acids

1,2-Diol mono-esters are useful building blocks in various areas. Herein, we report an efficient zwitterion-catalyzed epoxide ring-opening with carboxylic acids to give 1,2-diol monoesters. The catalytic protocol was applicable to a wide range of substrates. In addition, aziridine instead of epoxide could be used. The zwitterionic catalyst could be recycled by a simple aqueous extraction. The synthetic utilities of the 1,2-diol monoesters have been demonstrated.

Automated summary

Herein, an efficient zwitterion-catalyzed epoxide ring-opening with carboxylic acids is reported, providing a convenient method for the synthesis of 1,2-diol monoesters. The catalytic protocol shows a broad substrate scope and also allows the use of aziridine as a substitute for epoxide. The zwitterionic catalyst can be easily recycled by aqueous extraction, demonstrating the synthetic utilities of the 1,2-diol monoesters.