Alcohols were converted to the corresponding THP, THF or TMS ethers in high to excellent yields in 1-n-butylpyridinium chloroferrate media as a stable and low cost room temperature ionic liquid. In addition, oxidation of these ethers to their aldehydes or ketones without any overoxidation reactions in this ionic liquid was also performed.
Silylformates HCO2SiR3 are used for the first time as efficient silylating agents for alcohols, in the presence of a ruthenium molecular catalyst.