Efficient microwave-promoted synthesis of glucuronic and galacturonic acid derivatives using sulfuric acid impregnated on silica

Monomode microwave-assisted syntheses of D-glucuronic and D-galacturonic acid derivatives are reported in the presence of a solid acid catalyst, consisting of sulfuric acid loaded onto silica. This approach affords a variety of surface-active monoglycosylated glucofuranosidurono-6,3-lactones and disubstituted galacturonic adducts in excellent yields in less than 10 min at 85 °C. This study illustrates the application of microwave heating mode, in combination with a cost-effective solid catalyst, as an efficient, selective and eco-friendly methodology in carbohydrate chemistry.