Baeyer-Villiger reaction of benzaldehydes possessing oxygen functions with SeO₂-H₂O₂

The Baeyer-Villiger (B. V.) reaction using SeO₂-H₂O₂ was examined for various benzaldehydes possessing methoxy groups and/or a furan ring. When benzaldehydes have an electron-donating group (methoxy group) at the ortho or para position to a formyl group, the B. V. reaction proceeded rapidly and in a good yield. Since the reaction using SeO₂-H₂O₂ is carried out under a neutral condition, this reaction are applicable to aldehyde derivatives with a furan ring which is unstable against acid.