Two-Step Synthesis of Furans by Mn(III)-Promoted Annulation of Enol Ethers

Enol ethers, β-dicarbonyl compounds and the Mn(III) reagent Mn(3)O(OAc)(7) react under mild conditions to form 1-alkoxy-1.2-dihydrofurans in good (70-98%) yields. The latter are readily converted to furans by acid-catalyzed elimination of ROH.