Chemo‐ and Site‐Selective Fischer Esterification Catalyzed by B(C₆F₅)₃

Abstract

A direct and catalytic dehydrative esterification of carboxylic acids with alcohols is described. B(C 6 F 5 ) 3 is shown to be a highly effective catalyst for the Fischer esterification, providing esters in high to excellent yields. This esterification shows excellent chemo-and site-selective monoesterification of various polyols without any protection step, including bio-derived molecule glycerol.