Eu(OTf)3-catalyzed oxidation of 5-alkylidene-4,5-dihydrofurans: A new approach to functionalized furylhydroperoxides

Here reported is an unusual catalytic ability of Eu(OTf)₃ in the oxidative conversion of 5-alkylidene-4,5-dihydrofuran derivatives in the corresponding furylhydroperoxides with tert-butyl hydroperoxide. Furthermore, an enantioselective process of disproportionation of furylhydroperoxides has been highlighted in the presence of the Jacobsen’s catalyst (S,S)-(+)-N,N′-Bis(3,5-di-tert-butylsalicylidene)-1,2-cyclohexanediaminomanganese(III) chloride.