Formate derivatives hydroesterification

In presence of a mild base such as Na2C03 or NaOAc, a hydroesterification to furanones is possible (equation 89).437 RhCl3-3H20 or a binary carbonyl was used as catalyst. Indanont derivatives were obtained as by-products. The mechanism probably involves the formation of ar alkoxycarbonyl intermediate (Scheme 29). 

Hydrocarboxylation is the formal addition of hydrogen and a carboxylic group to double or triple bonds to form carboxylic acids or their derivatives. It is achieved by transition metal catalyzed conversion of unsaturated substrates with carbon monoxide in the presence of water, alcohols, or other acidic reagents. Ester formation is also called hydroesterification or hydrocarb(o)alkoxylation . The transition metal catalyst precursors are nickel, iron or cobalt carbonyls or salts of nickel, iron, cobalt, rhodium, palladium, platinum, or other metals4 5. 

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