Al2O3/MeSO3H (AMA) as a new reagent with high selective ability for monoesterification of diols

A new facile method for monoesterification of diols has been developed. A variety of diols, in particular oligoethylene glycols, were selectively monoesterified in excellent yields by reaction with aromatic and aliphatic acids in the presence of Al2O3/MeSO3H as a new reagent without use of any solvents.