Useful methods for the synthesis of isopropylidenes and their chemoselective cleavage

A catalytic amount of phosphotungstic acid (PTA) has been found to be a very effective catalyst for isopropylidenation of 1,2-diols and their deprotection at room temperature. The ease of handling, cost and activity of the catalyst, good to excellent yields and chemoselectivity for deprotection are some of the highlights of the reported method.