Direct transformation of benzyl esters into esters, amides, and anhydrides using catalytic ferric(iii) chloride under mild conditions

A facile one-pot transformation of benzyl esters into esters, amides, and anhydrides is described. α,α-Dichlorodiphenylmethane and FeCl₃ were employed as the chlorinating agent and catalyst respectively to convert benzyl esters into acid chloride intermediates, which directly reacted with alcohols, amines, and carboxylic acids. Various esters, amides, and anhydrides were readily obtained with high yields under mild conditions. This method is promising for the practical synthesis of esters, amides, and anhydrides from benzyl esters.