Synthesis of 2(3H)-furanones via electrophilic cyclization

A variety of highly substituted 2(3H)-furanones are readily prepared from 3-alkynoate esters and the corresponding acids via electrophilic cyclization. Successful electrophiles in this process include I2, ICl, and PhSeCl. This highly efficient process proceeds under mild conditions, tolerates various functional groups, and generally provides substituted 2(3H)-furanones in good to excellent yields.