A mild, clean, and simple synthesis of symmetrical carboxylic anhydrides from carboxylic acides using a polymer supported tosyl chloride

The use of polymeric reagents simplifies routine acylation of carboxylic acid because it eliminates the traditional purification. We describe the use of readily available cross-linked poly(4-vinylpyridine) supported tosyl chloride, P₄VP].TsCl, in the suspended solution phase synthesis of symmetrical anhydrides from carboxylic acids in the presence of K₂CO₃ in high yields and purity. The products can be obtained by filtration and evaporation of the solvent.