Synthesis of esters under microwave irradiation using heteropoly acids as catalysts

A practical and simple technique for synthesis of esters was developed by suing heteropoly acid as catalyst under microwave irradiation in the absence of organic solvents. Alcohols were easily and selectively converted to their acetates and benzoated with excellent yields (greater than or equal to98%), and in very short time (similar to5 min), as environmentally benign.