Microwave-assisted synthesis of D-glucuronic acid derivatives using cost-effective solid acid catalysts

Monomode microwave-assisted coupling of D-glucuronic acid with alcohols, in the presence of various impregnated acid catalysts, was successfully performed, affording in almost quantitative yields the corresponding monosubstituted beta-D-glucofuranosidurono-6,3-lactones in less than 10 min at 85 degrees C. This study evidences the synergy of microwaves and impregnated acid catalysts as a fast and clean strategy in the field of carbohydrate chemistry. (C) 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.